ERASING THE DISTANCE
What's your
mental health story?
Mental health can be an intimidating topic, but stories can create a bridge of understanding and window into our experiences that makes all the difference.
- Tue, Sep 10Chicago
- Wed, May 12Annual Gala
I want to listen to some stories.
Use this space to tell people more about what you do or a featured service.
I want to share my own story.
Use this space to tell people more about what you do or a featured service.
I want to learn about your events and trainings.
Use this space to tell people more about what you do or a featured service.
Join the board
Mental health can be an intimidating topic, but stories can create a bridge of understanding and window into our experiences that makes all the difference.
This work is made possible with generous support from
As long as I keep telling my story, I will be a much happier person
Since 2005 Erasing the Distance has collected 300+ stories that have reached more than 85,000 people across the United States. When a new storyteller reaches out they are paired with one of our trained story collectors for a one-on-one interview that can take place either in person or virtually. These casual conversations last about 45-90 minutes and are led by the storyteller.
ABOUT US
Erasing the Distance is a non-profit arts organization based in Chicago that uses the power of performance to disarm stigma, educate, spark dialogue, and promote healing surrounding mental health. Since 2005 the organization has been dedicated to creating a space for real people to share stories about their experiences navigating mental health.
CUSTOM PROGRAMS
CUSTOM PROGRAMS
Erasing the Distance uses the stories that have been collected to design programs that reflect the needs of the community. At each event, a facilitated conversation follows the performance to give the audience an opportunity to explore personal bias, ask questions, and share their own experiences.
WORKSHOPS/TRAINING
WORKSHOPS/TRAINING
The process surrounding Erasing the Distance’s methodology of collecting, shaping, and presenting stories is unique. Workshops and trainings are held to teach artists, community members, and aspiring mental health professionals how to conduct the process of story collecting and shaping.
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I'M REMINDED OF HOW PROFOUND IT IS TO STRETCH OUR NORMAL, OUR BAROMETER FOR HUMAN BEHAVIOR, AND ALL THE COLORS IT CAN LOOK LIKE.
- Audience Member
ONE STORY AT A TIME
In the podcast, "One Story At A Time", we invite you to join us in the first part of the story collection process, the interview. Where we dig into the beautiful, messy details that make us human while addressing a topic that is so often kept in the dark. Hearing these words gives us a window into someone's life in a way that can increase our empathy and understanding, not only for other people but also for ourselves.
DISARM THE STIGMA ONE STORY AT A TIME.
