Fandom Forward Assembles for Marvelous Mental Health Fest

Marvelous Mental Health Fest, hosted by fan activism organization Fandom Forward, aims to help connect Marvel fans and promote vital mental health resources.

As mental health remains an issue world-wide, resources to help people cope with stressful events remain vital. Fandom Forward, a fan organization that combines fandom and activism in its numerous initiatives, aims to help with the Marvel-themed Marvelous Mental Health Fest in May.

Just in time for the release of Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, Marvel fans can assemble for a series of panels emphasizing the importance of mental health. The virtual festival will begin on May 2nd and run until May 8th. Most of the event’s activities require no advance registration, and the entire event is free for all participants.

Each day features a panel that will focus on an aspect of mental health, with incorporation of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) fandom. The speakers on tap for the fest are all mental health specialists who share a passion for fandom and incorporate it into their work. To begin, the festival kicks off with an Instagram Live hosted by a licensed clinical psychologist who will share the benefits of utilizing superhero stories in therapy.

Next up is a YouTube panel focusing on the MCU event of “The Blip” and its ramifications. The panel promises to discuss “The Blip’s” impact on the characters of the MCU as well as how fans can help each other deal with the major events happening in the real world.

Remaining events will include a journaling workshop and a discussion on advocating for real-world mental health resources, both hosted on YouTube. The panels will conclude with a social event where fans can meet on Zoom to hang out and discuss their marvelous passions. Younger fans can also register in advance for “Kid’s Day,” which will feature activities targeted to younger heroes.

Marvelous Mental Health Fest is a promising event that aims to promote mental health resources while helping fans cope with forces both internal and external. With the constant barrage of current events, the event will hopefully be a fun way to help deal with the stressors while connecting with other fans passionate about Marvel and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Author: Jessica Wolff

Jessica Wolff is a graduate of Drexel University with a BS in Film/Video. She has a passion for entertainment and representation in entertainment. She currently resides outside of Washington, DC.

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