Mental Health America to Participate in Today's White House National Conference on Mental Health

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 3, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Statement of Wayne W. Lindstrom, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America:

Mental Health America is honored to participate in today's White House National Conference on Mental Health that is being hosted by President Obama and Vice President Biden and applaud them for this effort to launch a national conversation to increase understanding and awareness about mental health.

There is no better time to talk about mental health. While millions of Americans struggle with mental health problems, those who need help are too often afraid to seek it because of the shame and secrecy associated with mental illness. The conference will bring together people from across the country, including representatives from state and local governments, mental health advocates, educators, health care providers, faith leaders, and individuals who have struggled with mental health problems, to discuss how we can all work together to reduce stigma and help the millions of Americans struggling with mental health problems recognize the importance of reaching out for assistance.

We encourage all Americans to participate in the conversation by watching it live at whitehouse.gov/live from approximately 9:30 am to 2:45 pm (EDT) today.

Along with our 240 affiliates in 41 states, we will be active partners in this dialogue after June 3 so we raise awareness about mental health, increase understanding, and combat the fear and prejudice that too often prevents individuals from seeking help.

As an organization that launched the first public education campaigns around mental health, we know that an initiative such as this can do much to inform and educate and help break the invisible chains of misunderstanding and discrimination that continue to bind people with mental illness.

We will also be sharing new resources Mental Health America has developed, including an online tool that screens for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and an online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program.

This national dialogue can change the way we talk and think about mental health. We encourage all Americans to join in the conversation.

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.

SOURCE Mental Health America