Micah Howe is a dedicated mental health advocate from rural Iowa. He is a strong advocate and a rising voice for those with lived experience. He was supposed to speak at the 33rd Annual Research and Policy Conference in March 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to the conference.

The Iconic Clown: Reflections on the Joker’s Popularity as the Personification of Mental Illness and What America Can Learn From Gotham City’s Mental Health System

The Joker has become a hot-button character in the last few years as it relates to mental illness and mass violence. But why? What is it about this villain that has garnered so much attention, and what might the Batman series teach us about psychosocial and political solutions to problems of behavioral health in society?

In this episode, Micah candidly shares his journey through mental health treatment and support and his evolution as an advocate. He provides some great tips for those with mental illness, their families, and loved ones.

What You'll Learn

• The resources and support groups that are available to people with mental health illness and their families in Gotham City
• A profound reflection on Micah's presentation: Reflections on the Joker’s Popularity as the Personification of Mental Illness and What America Can Learn From Gotham City’s Mental Health System.
• Useful tips for people with mental illness, their families, and loved ones coming from Micah's lived experience.
• And much more!

“Advocacy was just natural, you come through such a difficult journey, and finally start to get some breakthroughs.” - Micah Howe

For More Information:

The International OCD Foundation

The National Alliance on Mental Illness