One-man show "SMILE" brings humor to the serious subject of mental health

The Disability Outreach Center and Men’s Resiliency program are happy to bring you SMILE, an autobiographical one-man show about major clinical depression, suicidal ideation, and the loss of first love. But, it's really funny. We promise. The event will be held in Arntzen Hall 100 on April 13 from 5 – 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For disability accommodations, contact as.disability@wwu.edu.

Told by Clayton Raithel, a NYC-based comedian, registered nurse, and mental health advocate who has given TEDx Talks to thousands on the therapeutic benefits of comedy, SMILE is the story of Clayton's graduation from college, when, for the first time ever, things just aren't going his way: his girlfriend dumps him, he can't stop puking and crying everywhere, and he's losing interest in everything in life. He's clinically depressed, and it's hilarious!

Tackling head-on the scary but vital conversation about depression that college campuses need to have with humor, candor, and vulnerability, SMILE is a perfect blend of entertainment and mental health programming for young people.

The show also includes a facilitated discussion on mental health with the students in attendance, led by Clayton.

Click here to see a preview of "Smile": https://vimeo.com/122696629