Affecting over 450 million people worldwide (Minnesota Science Museum), mental illness is an ongoing struggle experienced by many. Few, however, have been successful in their attempts to discover fun and effective ways to educate others about this topic.  

The Minnesota Science Museum, attended by the hundreds of children and families that visit every day, took on this task by introducing a new display unlike any other. The “Mind Matters: Mental Health” exhibit is a 5,000-foot open space that discusses, educates and explores the matters of mental health.

Junior and attendee of the exhibit Helen Davis said it made the topic of mental health easier to discuss.

“I personally have a history with mental illnesses, so when I heard about this exhibit I immediately wanted to check it out to see how they would portray the issue,” Davis said. “I think they did a very good job, especially with all the activities that make it so easy to learn new things.”

Among the activities are videos of people sharing their stories and their treatment, which is the highlight for many. The games, quizzes and mini-dioramas, however, have not gone unnoticed and are some other favorites of the exhibit.

At the end of the exhibit, there is the opportunity to share one’s own experiences by completing a comment card and Davis said it made the experience feel more intimate.

“The comment cards at the end really made the whole exhibit feel more personal, and I like that a lot,” Davis says.

Davis said she learned a lot about the commonality of mental illness from her experience at the exhibit.

“I definitely feel as though I have learned a lot. Even on the topics I still had questions about, those who worked there happily filled in the blanks for me.”

Science museum employee and psychologist Dayna Miller said the museum is great for everyone to start or expand their knowledge on mental health.

“This exhibit is for all ages. I really think that anyone who comes here can learn something, even if they already know a lot about the topic. I know I learn something new every day,” Miller said.

Although it is an important topic, discussing mental illness can be uncomfortable, but by encouraging conversation and questions from people of all ages, this exhibit breaks down these barriers.

Open through Jan. 6, 2019, the “Mind Matters: Mental Health” exhibit is available at the Minnesota Science Museum located at 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102.