By Gustavo Deveze Castellanos, ACC, Ascender Student Employee

A remarkable collaboration with the Austin Community College (ACC) Counseling Department, the ASCENDER program hosted its inaugural “Mental Health is Not Taboo” session on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at the ACC Highland Campus. This event aimed to raise mental health awareness and encourage open conversations among students, faculty, and staff. Three ACC Counseling Department counselors provided invaluable insights into mental health, particularly within the Hispanic community, addressing often-taboo topics and emphasizing effective ways to discuss mental health with family and friends. With an audience of 16 diverse individuals from within the ACC community, this session fostered understanding and communication about mental health, breaking down barriers, and creating a supportive environment. ACC Ascender’s Program invites others in this transformative journey as they continue to break the stigma surrounding mental health, ensuring that everyone feels supported and heard.