Experts to speak about stigma of mental illness

A group of local experts will discuss destigmatizing mental illness during a free lecture July 10 in Lompoc.

In the presentation at the Dick DeWees Community and Senior Center, three Lompoc Health specialists in mental health and counseling will discuss person experiences with mental illness, addiction and self-stigma. The lecture begins at 6 p.m.

The lecture, “De-stigmatizing the shame of mental health: A journey of hope, perseverance and resiliency,” is presented by the Lompoc Hospital District Foundation.

Lompoc Health Behavior Health Program Manager Michael Dixon, LCSW, will speak about his journey as a family member of someone suffering from serious mental illness while offering suggestions on how to use assertive communication and on setting good boundaries.

LFMT and Clinical Counselor Melanie Tucker will share on her journey of compound grief and addiction, offering insight from both personal and professional viewpoints with cultural sensitivity and awareness.

LVMC Emergency Department Patient Navigator Emily Dixon, a Peer Support Specialist, will discuss self-stigma and delays in receiving care due to shame about symptoms.