Florida to be focus of Federal effort to address mental illness stigma

Florida will be the focus of a three year effort to let the public know that mental illness can be felt in almost every community, that treatment is available, and that recovery can be expected, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced today.

Educational materials aimed at increasing awareness of the stigma and discrimination often associated with mental illness will feature people who have experienced mental illness, and emphasize contributions that people with mental illnesses can make in our communities. SAMHSA's "National Survey on Drug Use and Health" estimates that 17.5 million adults aged 18 or older had serious mental illness in 2002.

Through a variety of outreach efforts, this campaign, part of SAMHSA's Elimination of Barriers Initiative (EBI), hopes to promote greater public understanding and acceptance of people with mental illnesses. "All Americans must understand that effective treatment and support for those with mental illnesses exist, and that people do recover," said SAMHSA Administrator Charles G. Curie. "The fear and stigma that surround mental health problems make it harder for people to access treatment, find employment or obtain housing. Fortunately, everyone can do something to help reduce stigma." The campaign, "Mental Health: It's Part of All Our Lives," includes both broadcast and print public service advertisements.

It will be tested in Florida and seven other key states, and following the initial three-year test period, the program will be evaluated by SAMHSA, refined as necessary, and presented to audiences nationwide. "Mental Health: It's Part of All Our Lives" is part of a larger effort between SAMHSA, state mental health authorities, mental health consumers and family members, advocates, providers, and a range of national and state mental health organizations. The effort will direct people who would like more information about mental health to SAMHSA's National Mental Health Information Center (1-800-789-2647) -- as well as to the Web site http://www.allmentalhealth.samhsa.gov .