Olympian and author Alexi Pappas has written movingly and insightfully about the way mental health challenges have disrupted her life and the lives of her family members, as well as the treatment, love, and resilience that were all essential to re-establishing stability and meaning in her life. 

Do you have a story about how mental health has impacted your life? Would you be willing to share your story–in an essay or short video–with the DCCC community?

For this contest, please compose a true (nonfiction) account of your own mental health journey. This may take the form of a personal essay or “video essay.” Essays will be evaluated based on the vividness of the storytelling and the strength of the insights regarding mental health. 

Please limit your essay to 2,000 words or less (or your video essay to 5 minutes or less). 

The author of the winning essay will receive a $100 gift card, and they will also have the option of publishing their work online (anonymously if they prefer). 

If you have questions about this contest, please contact Professor Matthew Brophy at mbrophy4@dccc.edu.

When your essay is complete and you’re ready to submit it, do so using the online submission form below.

DEADLINE: Friday, March 22, 5 p.m.