ROCHESTER, Minn.- Standing on stage in front of about 45 people were 8 students nervously waiting their turn to tell their story of the battle they have fought with mental illness.

RCTC's Mental Illness Awareness Club held a forum which allowed students to share their stories and answer questions from the crowd about how they've become successful students and got through their darkest days.

Tina Reisner knows firsthand what it's like battling a mental illness.
"I have suffered from mental health issues for several years. Almost a year ago, I actually got to the point where I was contemplating suicide ... I'm doing much better now."

She says before she got to the point that she was able to reach out and talk to someone about how she was feeling, she was scared because she knows the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. 

Tina hopes having open forums like this one can help to spread awareness and maybe even help someone on their journey along the way.

If you or someone you know is battling a mental illness and needs help, click here.