The National Alliance on Mental Illness Louisiana held their 2015 Annual State Conference. It took place at the beautiful Lakeview Christian Center in New Orleans. The day brought together community leaders, health professionals, and the local chapters of this remarkable organization.

A few of the Louisiana chapters represented include those from Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Lake Charles, St. Tammany, Ruston, Terrebonne, and Lafayette. The day included many talented and diverse speakers who shared their lessons. A full list of speakers is below.

I greatly enjoyed hearing the keynote speaker Joshua Rivedal. He did a touching play sharing his amazing journey. He openly talked about the suicide of his father and his role reaching youth. His honest and open discussion enthralled the packed crowd.

Dr Kristopher Kaliebe and Dr. James Hussey did a fascinating lecture. Dr. Kaliebe spoke of the importance of moving your body, walking, eating well and not sitting for too long. He shared how our ancestors used to walk almost 10 miles daily. Dr. Hussey did magic that grabbed all of our attention. He managed to use a rubik’s cube, bowling bowl and wonderful lessons to grab our attention. He also showed the value of meditation and how it helps improve daily life.

I was also honored to speak and share hope. The audience was very kind as I shared about the loss of my brother, dealing with bipolar disorder and learning how to stay positive when facing mental illness. The warmth within the audience was easily felt by all in attendance.

The full list of presenters include:

Dr. Rochelle Head-Dunham, Mr. Foley Nash M.Ed, Ms. Margaret Mitchell, Maxine Campbell-Flint, Ph.D, George Schreiner, Ph.D., Tracy E. Boudreaux OTR/L, Dr. Jinneh Dyson, Ms. Hays, Cecile Tebo, LCSW, Alma Stewart, Jennifer Smith M.S., and Tai Venuti.

The NAMI Louisiana team did a wonderful job and it was great meeting Executive Director Ms. Nicole McGee, Ms. Judy Disotell and Ms. Donna Schaitel. If you want to learn more about the wonderful programs offered by NAMI Louisiana please see http://www.namilouisiana.org/