Mental Health Advocacy in Athens: An Interactive Map

View Mental Health Advocacy in Southeastern Ohio in a larger map

I wanted to share this map because mental health advocacy is a social justice issue that I believe is not reported often enough. There is not a taboo on mental illness like there was 20 years ago, but attitudes that degrade the mentally ill, or even view the mentally ill as not necessarily dangerous, but "different" still remain. 

Because Athens historically housed a large mentally ill population at what is now called The Ridges, and mental illness is generally first seen between the ages of 18-24, this city has a larger mentally ill population than most of its size. Mental health advocacy is therefore an essential issue in this city. For those interested, all of the locations on my map include links. Call or visit websites to find out how to get involved, or how to help yourself or someone you know who may benefit from any of the services offered at these locations. 

How To Promote Social Justice in Athens

If you want to promote social justice but don't know how to contribute, start by figuring out what you're most interested in. There is most likely a student group, organization, or business in Athens you can join that will help you make a difference and explore opportunities to be engaged in the community in the ways you feel are most important to you. Below is a list i've compiled of some of the student groups, organizations and businesses that have caught my eye so far. I've introduced them via "about" sections on their various websites. There are definitely more - feel free to add any. 

InterActivist Magazine: click here for their facebook page and here for their myspace page

Politically progressive student-run magazine committed to reporting on social justice and grassroots organizing.

United Campus Ministry: click here :)

Promoting spiritual growth via inclusive, creative methods & community service.

Empower: click here :)

Sells African jewelry & art to send African orphans to school.

Donkey Coffee: click here :)

Sells free trade coffee & helps social justice groups in Athens through public awareness, serving & financial giving.

Ohio University Women's Center: click here :)

Serving & advocating women of Athens.

My Sister's Place: click here :)

Providing safe shelter for women who are victims of domestic violence. 

Big Brothers/Big Sisters: click here :)

Helping disadvantaged children in Athens county by providing productive and healthy atmospheres & role models.