http://www.whmi.com:80/news/article/article6183.php4/3/08 - A 2004 Brighton graduate is using her experiences to transform a negative issue into a positive one. Central Michigan University student Emily Parsons was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after showing symptoms for two years. Bipolar is a mood disorder characterized by stints of mania and depression. She was hospitalized after suffering a period of mania that left her awake for four days straight. Fortunately, she has been doing much better and wanted to help spread awareness and reduce the stigma associated with bipolar. So she started an advocacy group at CMU called “active minds”; a peer-to-peer organization dedicated to raising awareness among college students. Her father and Brighton resident, Brian Parsons, says he kept unintentionally attributing Emily’s symptoms to other things, such as her medications, and wishes he would have more aware of the disorder. Brian says he’s extremely proud of his daughter’s strength and willingness to speak out about her diagnosis. She was awarded the Student Mental Health Advocate Award at the Depression on College Campuses Conference last month in Ann Arbor. Active minds is hosting a 5-K race and 2 mile walk called “Stomp Out Stigma” Sunday on CMU’s campus. To hear more about Emily Parson’s story tune into WHMI’s Viewpoint program this Sunday at 8:30 a.m. (LS)
