Mental Health Takes Center Stage At 'Comedy Central Presents ClusterFest'

Comedy Central has partnered with Mental Health First Aid, program of the National Council for Behavioral Health, to highlight and drive forward mental health culture change during Comedy Central Presents Clusterfest, with a special panel, “Comedy and Mental Health: A Hilarious Conversation,” featuring comedians Neal Brennan, Michelle Buteau, Tig Notaro and Jeff Ross. In addition, festivalgoers will have the opportunity to experience a “Festival of Friendship” activation encouraging people to learn more about Mental Health First Aid and how to #BeTheDifference in helping friends during a mental health or substance abuse crisis. Comedy Central Presents Clusterfest, a three-day comedy and music festival, will take place in San Francisco from June 21-23.

Comedy helps people cope with the tough times in life…but what helps comedians cope with a life in comedy? Michelle Buteau will lead Neal Brennan, Tig Notaro and Jeff Ross in a hilarious and honest conversation in which they will ponder this riddle and more as they discuss the intrinsic relationship between comedy and mental health. Included will be a special, pre-recorded message from Rainn Wilson who will introduce a sneak preview of the forthcoming SoulPancake documentary, It’s Not That Funny, about the nexus of comedy and mental health.

In addition to the panel, Comedy Central and Mental Health First Aid will present a “Festival of Friendship” activation during Clusterfest in which festivalgoers will receive #BeTheDifference friendship bracelets along with more information on Mental Health First Aid and be invited to help in the creation of the “Enjoy It!” mural in honor of Brody Stevens a beloved comedian who passed away from suicide earlier this year.

Clusterfest is also proud to partner with and raise funds for MPTF’s Comedians Assistance Fund, which provides a safety net of services to comedians including emergency financial assistance, counseling and referrals, health care and insurance guidance, senior care, and more.

SOURCE: Comedy Central