Stanford University School of Medicine
The Robert G. Fenley Writing Awards: General Staff Writing
Gold
Leanne Williams, a Stanford Medicine professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences who specializes in the biotyping of depression, lost her partner to suicide in 2015. It took her many years to figure out how to talk about it; how to make that devastating loss part of her personal and professional narrative. But she’s glad she finally did. Now, as colleagues continue to reach out with supportive words, Williams is certain that talking openly about depression can help destigmatize mental illness.
What was the most impactful part of your entry?
Williams’ willingness to share honestly and openly has impacted many of her academic colleagues around the world. Their feedback — via calls, emails or face-to-face at one of the many conferences she attends — has fortified her belief that speaking out has an important domino effect.
What challenge did you overcome?
How to be extremely sensitive with someone’s story when they are making themselves vulnerable by sharing very personal information.
Contact:
Alison Peterson
medawards@stanford.edu