James Jones, law professor at the University of Louisville, spoke to IUS students about his struggles and triumphs living with bipolar disorder.
About 80 students attended the seminar, which was co-sponsored by the Psychology Club and Common Experience.
Many students said they attended to complete their intellectual event requirement for their First-Year seminars, however, Angel Crawford, business marketing freshman, said Jones’ speech was uplifting for people like her who also suffer from mental disorders.
“It made me realize that more people have mental disorders than we know of,” Crawford said. “It gives me hope that people can be successful even with their mental illness.”
Jones said the mentally ill are the most stigmatized group in society. Although ethnic slurs and racism are slowly disappearing, society still makes fun of and fears the mentally ill.
Jones gave an example he could relate with to his life.
He said companies, such as many law firms, ask the applier if they have ever sought out help for a mental illness. Simply meeting with a counselor is required on some applications.
“Many law students don’t seek help because they don’t want to have to answer ‘yes’,” Jones said.
Meghan Kahn, co-adviser of Psychology Club, said many students can relate with Jones.
Every year after this seminar, Kahn receives responses from students who will tell her they felt discouraged until hearing Jones speak.
“He proves people with mental disorders can get married, have children and be successful,” Kahn said. “He gives people hope.”
Jones is married, has two daughters and teaches a law class at the University of Louisville.
“I show what’s possible when you combine hard work with medical care,” Jones said.
Jones said one in four Americans have a mental disorder, but most are not harmful to others.
“You can’t look at someone and tell they have a mental disorder,” Jones said.
Kahn said it’s important for society to accept people with mental illnesses.
Jones said most mentally ill are only dangerous toward themselves.
In 1983, Jones said he attempted suicide.
“I felt like my brain short circuited,” Jones said. “I needed rest and care.”
Kahn said this seminar gives awareness to many students who have not had the opportunity to meet someone with a mental illness.
Jones called the students the leaders of the future.
“Many of you are entering stressful positions,” Jones said. “Seek medical care and take advantage of it.”
By BRITTANY POWELL
Staff
bripowel@ius.edu
