Those who suffer from mental illness can retreat into shadowy places. One Sioux Falls woman wants to help lead people back to the light.

Penny Hall is a volunteer with the National Alliance on Mental Illness who has experience with her own fight with the darkness.

"I used to suffer when I was first diagnosed. When I first started taking care of it, I didn't know how to live. There were all those questions. I was afraid and I felt like I was damaged goods. That's a good way to explain it."

Eventually coming to terms with her condition, Hall commits herself to be that advocate for others who are going on a similar journey.

"I live with a mental illness. I know how to use my coping skills. I've learned how to ask for help. I love going out and speaking. I want people to know they are not alone. I accept that I'm going to live with a mental illness for the rest of my life, but I have tools to stay in recovery."

Support groups are available for those in need. They are 90 minute sessions meant to be a place for encouragement.

The sessions take place on Sunday evening, Monday midday, Tuesday evening and late afternoon on Thursday at various locations.

  • Sunday: 1st Congregational Church 11th and Minnesota 6:00 PM-7:30 PM
  • Monday: 1st Congregational Church 11th and Minnesota 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 1st Christian Reformed Church 2901 E 26th St. 6:30 PM-8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 1st Presbyterian Church 2300 S. West Ave. 4:00 PM-5:30 PM

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