Mental Health America and U Squared Interactive Announce Strategic Partnership to Provide Online, Evidence-Based Tools for Mental Health Issues

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 23, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Mental Health America (MHA) and U Squared Interactive (U2) today announced a collaborative, private/nonprofit partnership to provide Americans online, evidence-based tools they can use to address challenging mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. 

U2 has developed a computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program, Beating the Blues, which specifically addresses this urgent national need.  People will be able to get complimentary access to Beating the Blues US® by making a donation to the work of MHA between now and the MHA 2013 Annual Conference, June 5-8, 2013. To make a donation, go to http://mentalhealthamerica.net/go/may/beatingtheblues.

Depression and anxiety conditions are estimated to affect over 60 million Americans and cost the U.S. economy more than $105 billion in lost productivity every year. Despite the great efforts of health care providers and policy makers, there are simply not enough therapists or funding available to provide access to evidence-based solutions to meet the growing need. 

"We are pleased to join in this effort that will deliver an important tool that will empower consumers and help them chart their path to recovery," said Wayne W. Lindstrom, Ph.D., president and CEO of MHA. "It builds on our long history of removing obstacles and expanding access to care."

John Smith, Chief Operating Officer at U2 added: "As the oldest advocacy agency in the U.S., MHA has demonstrated a long standing ability to bring about positive change in the ways in which mental health care has been delivered, and we are delighted to be forming this strategic partnership to help influence both policy makers, health care practice and recipients of care."  He added, "We want as many people as possible to benefit from this opportunity to get access to our evidence-based CBT program and ask that people circulate the link to the MHA site."

Beating the Blues has treated over 300,000 people worldwide with 22 peer-reviewed and published studies that demonstrate its effectiveness at treating mild and moderate depression and anxiety conditions. In the U.S. it is already deployed in large integrated delivery health systems, health insurers, behavioral health organizations, employers, and within the Department of Veterans Affairs and Defense Department.

The initial objectives of the strategic partnership will be to:

• Raise national awareness of the importance of mental health screening and follow up
• Encourage use of Beating the Blues for those in need
• Offer information and resources through the MHA community network
• Promote and share best practices with American consumers 

About MHA –Mental Health America (www.mentalhealthamerica.net), founded in 1909, is the nation's leading community-based network dedicated to helping all Americans achieve wellness by living mentally healthier lives. With our 240 affiliates across the country, we touch the lives of millions—Advocating for changes in mental health and wellness policy; Educating the public & providing critical information; and delivering urgently needed mental health and wellness Programs and Services. 

About U2 Interactive - U2 Interactive's mission is to support all healthcare stakeholder communities in creating innovative and cost effective computer based solutions for everyday health problems, lifestyle issues, and long-term conditions. U2 Interactive believes in delivering evidenced based treatment via interactive and easy to use software programs.

U2 is jointly owned by UPMC & Ultrasis PLC and head quartered in Pittsburgh, PA.

About Beating The Blues US® - is the American version of Beating the Blues, a computerized CBT program that has treated over 300,000 people worldwide.  There are 22 peer-reviewed and published studies that demonstrate its effectiveness at treating mild and moderate depression and anxiety conditions. In the U.S. it is already deployed in large integrated delivery health systems, health insurers, behavioral health organizations, employers and within the VA and DoD.

SOURCE Mental Health America