Mental Health is a key component of every individual’s overall physical health and emotional well-being. Mental illness affects people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and income levels. Mental health conditions are not only common, they are treatable, and early and effective intervention can save lives and change the trajectories of people living with mental illness; and    

Only 50 percent of individuals with a serious form of mental illness seek treatment. Feelings of personal shame and fears of social stigma and discrimination prevent many living with mental illness from seeking help. Untreated mental illness leads to higher rates of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, school drop-outs and suicides; and    

Stigma leads to fear, mistrust, and violence against people with mental illness, who are significantly more likely to be victims than perpetrators of violent crimes. Greater public awareness about mental wellness can positively transform attitudes about and towards people with mental illness, making it easier for our citizens to seek help.