AIM’s Virtual Mental Health Monday series offers discussions on such topics as suicide prevention, accessibility in the arts and more.Learn more about supporting good mental health in a monthly, free webinar series presented by Arts in Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
The UAB Arts in Medicine program, a partnership with UAB Medicine, strives to transform the care environment and enhance well-being and healing through creative arts experiences for patients, families and staff.
AIM’s Virtual Mental Health Monday series features discussions and Q-and-A with experts in their fields. The one-hour webinars are open to all with registration. See the full series and register for the webinars at AlysStephens.org. With questions, email
Monday, Feb. 17
UAB Arts in Medicine Virtual Mental Health Monday: “Suicide Prevention: Finding Purpose after Loss”
Tune in for an insightful discussion with Cheryl Acker Dodson, a dedicated mental health advocate who turned personal tragedy into a mission for suicide prevention. After losing a friend to suicide, Dodson found solace and purpose in connecting with others who have faced similar losses. Her community art initiatives have fostered global connections, providing a creative outlet for healing and raising awareness. Hear her powerful story and learn how art can transform grief into collective strength and support. Noon. Register online.
Monday, March 17
UAB Arts in Medicine Virtual Mental Health Monday: “Disability Arts Festival: Spotlight on Jessica Blinkhorn and Victoria Dugger”
Discover how disability drives creative innovation in this compelling discussion with interdisciplinary artist Jessica Elaine Blinkhorn and visual artist Victoria Dugger. Blinkhorn, a 2024 Guggenheim Fellow, is an educator and curator whose performance and installation work challenge societal narratives around disability, autonomy and access. Dugger’s work, blending playful compositions with grotesque imagery, reframes imperfection and interdependence, earning critical acclaim in Vogue and ARTnews. Together, they will discuss the challenges of access in creative spaces, art as a catalyst for change, and reshaping traditional aesthetics to prioritize accessibility and welcoming spaces. Part of the UAB Disability Arts Festival. Noon. Register online.
Monday, April 21
UAB Arts in Medicine Virtual Mental Health Monday: “Stories from the Stage — Creating Community and Connection through Artistic Expression”
Discover the transformative power of storytelling and hear from cast members from around the country about the upcoming storytelling and movement performance “From Where I Sit,” created by Suzanne Costello, artistic co-director of Stuart Pimsler Dance & Theater. Cast members will discuss their experiences over the past two years on Zoom, from crafting their narratives to preparing for their two-week residency in Birmingham that will culminate in public performances on May 8 and 10. Register online.
Monday, May 19
UAB Arts in Medicine Virtual Mental Health Monday: “Mental Health and Community Well-Being: A Conversation with Donna Duke-Pope”
Join mental health advocate Donna Duke-Pope and a panel of local mental health professionals for a discussion on mental health within the Black community. Panelists will share insights on factors that influence mental well-being, including cultural perspectives, access to care and community support. The conversation will explore strategies for building resilience, increasing awareness of mental health resources, and fostering welcoming, supportive environments. Noon. Register online.
UAB AIM’s Virtual Mental Health Monday series is made possible by support from Independent Presbyterian Church Foundation, Miriam Kirklin Reed and the Susan Mott Webb Charitable Trust.