As a mental health awareness initiative, West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s Office of Wellness Education in partner with West Chester University’s Department of Counseling and Psychological Services will host a free screening of the movie “Prozac Nation” later this month.
The film “Prozac Nation” is based on the autobiographical book of the same name written by Elizabeth Wurtzel in 1994. The book follows Wurtzel’s battle with depression as she dealt with attending college, working as a writer, and learing to eventually accept her own flaws.
The film centers around the life of Elizabeth “Lizzie” Wurtzel. Lizzie is granted a scholarship to study journalism at Harvard University, but her broken home and troubled past affect her success.
Lizzie’s life becomes a downward spiral as she uses drugs and alcohol to help cope with mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
The film screening will be followed by a discussion about mental disorders, how to fight the stigma of them, and how the audience can improve their own mental health.
“Prozac Nation” will be shown after spring break on Monday, March 19 at 6 p.m. in Sykes Student Union Theater. Admission is free, and light refreshments and snacks will be provided.
Carol Fritz is a third-year student majoring in communication studies. She can be reached at CF716022@wcupa.edu.