As a society and community, we have become more aware of mental health and the role it plays in our lives and in our beloved characters’ lives. More and more writers are developing characters who may be navigating depression, anxiety, phobias, psychosis, or other conditions. How we write these characters is vital to preserving their dignity taking care with descriptions, backstories and even traumas that may have triggered certain behaviors. Join Dr. Samantha Winterberg and Dr. Elizabeth Santiago as we discuss writing about mental health and the questions that may arise as we create authentic characters. We will share descriptions, case studies, and examples while engaging in rich discussion and relevant writing activities.

Dr. Samantha Winterberg is a health psychologist, educator, and author with nearly two decades of expertise in integrating mental and physical health. Her earlier career was marked by advocacy for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, drawing…