Linking Minds for Justice - a Symposium Hosted by the Mental Health and the Law Society
On February 12th, the UNB Mental Health and the Law Society (MHLS) hosted a day-long symposium entitled "Linking Minds for Justice". This was a public event and was attended by students and professionals from legal, medical and social fields. Symposium participants were able to gain valuable information on dealing with mental health issues and the help resources that are available. Moreover, the symposium explored some of the barriers faced by those who suffer from mental illness ranging from depression to schizophrenia and the need for increased awareness about mental health issues.
This symposium was the first of its kind hosted at UNB and participants traveled from far and wide to attend. By providing a forum to discuss issues around mental health, the MHLS has helped to prompt a discussion about the social and policy challenges faced by those who suffer from mental illness. Tim Culbert, MHLS Chair and second year law student described his motivation for hosting this symposium.
This event was put on to provide a venue for people to discuss and learn about the various ways in which mental health issues and the law intersect. I have personally seen many people suffer in silence with these issues and wanted to do something to make people aware that they are not alone and that there are many resources out there.
The MHLS is in its first full year of operation and has seen a steady increase in its membership. The Society is currently building relationships with other UNB departments and professional groups that have also identified the need for increased awareness about mental health within their respective fields.
