Combat Stigma Event at NCC

On April 3, the Northampton Community College (NCC) Band of Brothers and Psychology Club collaborated to host an event focused on raising awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), while also combating the stigma associated with these conditions. Held at NCC's Bethlehem campus in the Laub Lounge, the event allowed students and community members to connect with peers and outside resources for these conditions. 

The Laub Lounge was packed with information tables featuring organizations such as the NCC Counseling Office, BattleBorne Veterans Support Organization, Monroe County Veteran's Affairs, and Valor Clinic Foundation, among others. Each table offered souvenirs or informative pamphlets detailing their services and contributions to addressing the stigma surrounding PTSD and related mental health issues. 

The event kicked off with opening remarks from NCC’s Dean of Students and Associate Vice Provost, Dr. Eric Rosenthal, who provided insights into the nature of PTSD and TBI and the various situations that can lead to their development. Following this was a lineup of esteemed speakers, including State Senator, Rosemary Brown, Board-Certified Art Therapist and NCC Counselor, Ariane Medero, and Combat Retired Army Sergeant, Major Mark Baylis, among others.  

Ariane Medero spoke about the therapeutic benefits of art as a means of coping with PTSD-related stress. She highlighted how expressing yourself through art can provide a pathway towards healing and finding peace since artwork allows you to express your emotions using both sides of your brain. This allows you to use the analytical side of your brain along with your emotional side to express feelings you may not be able to put into words. Each speaker had unique strategies and viewpoints to help people overcome their struggles and allow room to heal. Major Mark Baylis also took time to speak about his more than 26 years on active duty and how he knows firsthand how difficult it is for veterans to deal with PTSD and TBI. Baylis is the founder and CEO of the VALOR Clinic Foundation (VCF) which helps veterans with limited or no access to care find assistance. The VCF also helps find shelter for veterans who, due to health-related issues or other means, are unable to find or keep shelter of their own. Baylis provides PTSD resources for veterans through his Veterans Unstoppable program. 

The event also included a networking lunch, facilitating meaningful interactions between attendees and speakers to further the exchange of information and experiences. Overall, the event served as a platform for sharing mutual support and understanding while bringing together people who have been impacted by PTSD or TBI, whether through war or traumatic life events. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD or TBI, please reach out to the counseling department at NCC for help.