'Normal is Overrated' family event to be held May 3

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Rezul -- In its mission to open the doors to acceptance and inclusivity for Southwest Florida middle and high school students to talk about mental health, Kids' Minds Matter's annual "Normal is Overrated" event is planned May 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Florida SouthWestern State College, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers.

A free interactive and informative event created by students, "Normal is Overrated" shines a light on the mental and behavioral health struggles teens and young people face. This year's program will include:

Inspiring stories from local students with first-hand experience.
Keynote speaker Dr. Michael Rizzo offering expert insights, and mental health advocate Chantel Rhodes guiding the event as emcee.
Opportunities to connect with mental health services and resources available in Southwest Florida.
Dr. Michael Rizzo, known as "Coach Mike," has more than 35 years of experience helping children and their families navigate social, emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. Having faced ADHD, anxiety, and dyslexia himself, Rizzo believes no child is lazy – every child wants to succeed. A specialist in the innovative science of the brain, Coach Mike is passionate about empowering families, teachers, and professionals to recognize and support neurodiverse minds.

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Chantel Rhodes, a Fort Myers native, is a mental health advocate and social worker with extensive experience empowering young people, families and communities. Rhodes has led initiatives addressing racial justice, police relations and mental health awareness. As a former Mental Health Navigator with Kids' Minds Matter, she helped local families understand mental health challenges and connect with community resources

Student speakers include Andrea Gijon, who returns after speaking at the 2024 event. She will talk about her mental health journey and what has helped her overcome challenges and maintain her mental health. Gijon, a college student, hopes to get a degree in political science and international business.

Additional middle and high school students willing to share their personal experiences are encouraged to apply to speak at the event. Sponsorships are also available for this free, important community event.  For information and registration, visit KidsMindsMatter.com/NIO.