Mental illness, addiction, and creative brilliance often go hand and hand, particularly when it comes to the arts. Derek Hess understands artists like himself are in a unique position to start dialogues about intimate, universal struggles without as much fear of judgment.

ACTING OUT! is our opportunity to challenge — and change — the negative stereotypes.

The four-day arts for mental illness and addiction awareness series aims help to break down stigmas through public art events including film screenings, visual art shows, music, comedy, storytelling, and panel discussions.

Our unique and approachable arts programming is presented to the public in non-clinical settings and is presented in collaboration with celebrity advocates, artists in addiction recovery and/or living with mental illness, and in partnership with trusted healthcare professionals and arts organizations.

Acting Out! has an engaged and diverse audience, including those living with or affected by mental illness and/or addiction, healthcare professionals, and supporters of the arts and popular culture. The majority of the audience is between the ages of 25 and 55 years old. The audience served is evenly split between those specifically interested in mental health and addiction programming and the general public that attend based on the arts events but leave with a greater understanding of the mission.

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