In this episode of the Psych Central Show, hosts Gabe Howard and Vincent M. Wales welcome Jessie Close, sister of acclaimed actress Glenn Close.
Jessie shares the story of her son’s diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, followed by her own diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Spurred by a desire to make people more aware of the stigma surrounding mental illness, Jessie reached out to Glenn for help.
The result was the founding of Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging dialogue about mental health, and to raising awareness, understanding, and empathy.
Jessie tells of the making of the incredible public service announcement, directed by Ron Howard, and featuring Glenn, Jessie, and Jessie’s son, Calen.
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Jessie Close Show Highlights:
“The kids these days… they’re amazing! … They seem to understand [mental illness]; they seem to not be freaked out by it.” ~ Jessie Close
[1:55] Jessie Close tells of her diagnosis, late in life.
[4:58] How her son’s diagnosis affected her own recovery.
[9:25] Jessie talks about Bring Change to Mind and the PSA featuring Glenn Close and directed by Ron Howard.
[17:23] How worried was Glenn that her activism would affect her career?
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About Our Guest
Jessie Close is a mental health advocate and ambassador for Bring Change to Mind, a not-for-profit organization founded by Jessie’s sister, actress Glenn Close. Jessie fights stigma and misunderstanding to create a clearer picture of mental disorders. Her own struggle with bipolar disorder and alcoholism provides the backbone to a courageous story and an enlightened perspective on the state of mental health in America.
Resilience: Two Sisters and a Story of Mental Illness
About The Psych Central Show Podcast Hosts
Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar and anxiety disorders. In addition to hosting The Psych Central Show, Gabe is an associate editor for PsychCentral.com. He also runs an online Facebook community, The Positive Depression/Bipolar Happy Place, and invites you to join. To work with Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.
Vincent M. Wales is a former suicide prevention counselor who lives with persistent depressive disorder. In addition to co-hosting The Psych Central Show, Vincent is the author of several award-winning novels and the creator of costumed hero Dynamistress. Visit his websites at www.vincentmwales.com and www.dynamistress.com.
Source: psychcenteral
