UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Smeal College of Business Office of Diversity Enhancement Programs has partnered with several units across the University to provide a unique opportunity to hear real talk about mental health.
Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-DMC fame will speak at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29, in 101 Thomas Building at University Park about mental health, addiction and recovery.
McDaniels is a rapper, author and founding member of legendary hip-hop trio Run-DMC, the second rap group to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, in 2009. He has spoken publicly and written about addiction and recovery, and how he came to embrace the value of therapy.
His memoir “Ten Ways Not to Commit Suicide” details McDaniels’ battle with depression and sobriety, including his stark admission about overcoming suicidal thoughts.
“As we approach the end of the semester, job offers, relationships, final exams and holiday stresses can combine to create potentially fragile situations for some in the University community,” said Jamie Campbell, Smeal’s assistant dean for Diversity Enhancement Programs.
“McDaniels’ straight talk about his own challenges might prompt some in attendance to evaluate their own situation and consider accessing one of several avenues for help the University offers.”
A representative from Penn State’s Counseling and Psychological Services will serve as moderator of McDaniels’ discussion.
His talk is free and open to the public.
It also is sponsored by the College of Arts and Architecture, the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, the Penn State Office of the Vice Provost for Educational Equity, and Penn State Student Disability Resources.