Turning Tragedy Into Victory: USD 333 Concordia to Host "A Real Story of Victory Over Severe Depression"

Mark Potter, a retired college head basketball coach, and his wife Nanette will share their personal experience with severe depression and victory over mental illness at a public presentation, "The Silent Epidemic: A Real Story of Victory Over Severe Depression," on Monday, September 11th at 7 pm in the Concordia High School Auditorium.

Potter, a thirty year head basketball coach and a member of the Cowley College Hall of Fame, the Newman University Hall of Fame, the Wichita Sports Hall of Fame, and most recently, the National Baseball Congress Hall of Fame, speaks about his bout with depression, during the height of his basketball coaching career. 

Potter has since left coaching and has been on a crusade to educate people about depression and encourage others suffering from mental illness to seek assistance.  His passion is to share his story in hopes that people will pursue treatment and find a way to live productively with mental illness.

Coach Potter and his wife provide a real, relevant, and raw story of his personal experience with severe depression.

When Potter began a downward spiral into severe depression, the uncertainties and lack of knowledge on the subject sent the family into a desperate search for help.  He talks about his darkest depression, and shares his story of overcoming obstacles and even suicidal thoughts.

Nanette will share the often forgotten perspective of the family's side of the story and give caregivers practical suggestions to assist in the situation.

During the presentation, Coach Potter shares practical ideas to help everyone train their brain and be able to practice mental health and wellness strategies. 

This free public event is sponsored by K-State Research and Extension's River Valley District, North Central Kansas Medical Center, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia. 

Following the public presentation, the Potters will speak with junior high students in Concordia at 9:30 am on September 12th, followed by a conversation with high school students at approximately 12:45 pm.