Action Alerts /Kudos to TLN's 'Aspiring Women' for raising awareness about mental health issues and the church
Total Living Network's "Aspiring Women" is a Christian-themed talk show that discusses issues and challenges women face. The show is described on its website as featuring lively content where viewers are left with "something to think about, talk about and share with others." Their episode about Chrystal Hansen, a minister and pastor 's wife struggling with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, gave the PEERS media department a lot to talk about. The show addressed the need for more discussion and destigmatization of mental health issues in the church. When Hansen said she stopped taking her medication because she believed God healed her, the "Aspiring Women" hosts recognized her choice but still emphasized the importance of psychiatric treatment and always consulting your doctor.
"Aspiring Women" airs on KTLN-TV in the Bay Area.
Take Action!
Total Living Network
eholder@TLN.com
Dear "Aspiring Women" Producers,
I am writing to commend you for your recent episode, "Losing Myself" about a pastor's wife battling bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Your show provided an honest look at coping with mental illness and the lack of discussion on this issue in the church. You gave your faith-based viewers hope that recovery is possible through psychiatric treatment and support. And you encouraged them to hold on to their faith. Efforts like yours help our society acquire accurate depictions of mental health patients while also encouraging those who may be silently suffering to reach out and seek help. Mental illness either directly or indirectly affects nearly every human being, so your willingness to bring transparency to a traditionally taboo issue should be celebrated.
Thank you.
