POWERFUL FILM ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS

Options for Community Living recently presented a screening of the powerful documentary Here One Day followed by a discussion with the daughter of a former New York State Senator and the film’s Producer/Director Kathy Leichter.

Kathy’s mother Nina Leichter took her own life in 1995. Sixteen years passed before Kathy had the courage to delve into a collection of audio tapes and writings, unearthing details that her mother had recorded about every aspect of her life – from the challenges of her marriage to a State Senator, to her son’s estrangement, to her struggles with bipolar disorder. While the documentary tells a very intimate and personal story, it also is meant to spark a wider conversation about mental illness and suicide.

“The film was really moving,” said Yolanda Robano-Gross, executive director, Options for Community Living. “Kathy spoke very openly about her experience as a survivor of suicide, and its impact on her life. She also commended our staff for their efforts to help people recovering from mental illness and stressed the importance of having a support system of their own.”

The screening was one of several agency activities arranged during Mental Health Awareness Week, October 4-1o, 2015. During this week, mental health organizations nationwide strive to bring awareness to mental illness. While the issues of stigma, support, education and advocacy are important to address year round, highlighting these issues during Mental Health Awareness Week provides a time for people to come together and display the passion and strength of those working to improve the lives of the tens of millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

About Options for Community Living, Inc.

Established in 1982, Options for Community Living, Inc. operates residential programs for adults recovering from mental illness and affordable supported housing and care coordination services for individuals and families with chronic health conditions. Options’ mission to assist people to live independently and with dignity in the community has grown through the years to serve more than 1,000 adults and children annually. For more information, call 631.361.9020 or visit Options’ website at www.optionscl.org.