National Alliance On Mental Illness Chapter Hosts Meeting About Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

The Casper chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness will launch its spring campaign at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, 1800 Bryan Stock Trail at 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

Dan Odell says speakers from the local veterans center will talk about the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder, which is caused by a traumatic event that the mind cannot process.

"It can come out in substance abuse issues, it can come out with domestic violence abuse issues," Odell said. "It can affect people's depression and other mental health issues."

The National Alliance on Mental Illness educates people, advocates for them in public policy matters, and offers personal support, he said.

"I hope people will have a better understanding about what they can do if they know people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, and the resources that are available," Odell said.

Saturday's event features food and entertainment features heavy appetizers and entertainment by local musician Chad Lore.

It is free for veterans, $5 for students and those who use mental health services, $10 for NAMI members, and $15 for nonmembers.

For more information call Dan Odell at 247-1962.