LEWISTON — A nonprofit advocacy organization is seeking amateur storytellers, poets and musicians who have been affected by mental illness, either their own or a loved one, to audition for a fall storytelling event in Lewiston.

The event, “This is My Brave: Lewiston,” will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5, at The Dolard & Priscilla Gendron Franco Center, 46 Cedar St.

Auditions will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, and from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 14, at the Auburn Public Library. Storytellers must sign up to reserve their audition spot.

“One in four people face mental health issues, meaning nearly every family in America has been touched by this treatable, but challenging, issue,” Jennifer Marshall, executive director of This is My Brave, said. “The show is critical to empowering individuals living with mental illness, and the people who love them, to bravely seek care and support and start the healing process.”

People living with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, suicide attempts, anorexia or bulimia, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder, are encouraged to tell their story in essay, poetry or original song. Family members, loved ones and caregivers are also encouraged to share their experiences. All ages are welcome to audition.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Mainers to be brave and share their personal stories in a supportive, empowering, creative atmosphere that will hopefully encourage not only their own healing, but inspire those of us who get to experience their stories, as well,” Tracy Griffin, Maine producer, said.

Each essay, music or poem must not exceed five minutes. The show has a PG-13 rating due to the nature of topics covered. Inappropriate language may need to be edited. Visit the ThisIsMyBrave YouTube channel for inspiration.

Based in Virginia, This is My Brave Inc, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit advocacy organization developed to encourage conversations about mental health and help remove the stigma of mental illness.

FMI: thisismybrave.org or on Twitter at @ThisIsMyBrave.