‘It’s okay to not be okay’ | Indiana Black & Minority Health Fair hosts first mental health discussion

“Conversations like this opens up the ability to be uncomfortable,” panelist Beatrice Beverly said. INDIANAPOLIS — During the Indiana Black & Minority Health Fair, people can get many resources, but this year there was a new discussion all on mental health. “Conversations like this opens up the ability to be uncomfortable,” panelist Beatrice Beverly said. Beverly says these hard conversations are what starts to break the mental health stigma. “Activate your super power, let us know your truth and be authentic and intentional,” she said. While the panelists provided resources, panelist Ashaunte Portis shared her experience with bipolar depression. “People can relate to me that you don’t have to have a doctorate or master’s to share your experience,” Portis said. “You’re an expert in your life and your story.” This was the first time Portis talked about her diagnosis and she hopes this helps other people become more comfortable with theirs. “It’s okay to not be okay, mental health is real and should be more talked about,” she said. The health fair runs until Sunday. You can still get free screenings and services.