DMH joins anti-stigma campaign

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health is partnering with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to launch an anti-stigma campaign. The campaign, "What a Difference a Friend Makes," is designed to decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness and encourage young adults to support their friends who are living with mental health problems.

"The stigma attached to mental illness is why many people choose not to seek treatment," said Ed LeGrand, DMH Executive Director. "Stigma gets in the way of proper treatment and recovery. There are ways, however, to counter stigma and our goal is to have the entire state of Mississippi join our efforts to combat stigma."

A statewide committee will spearhead activities on the first phase of the campaign, which is directed toward the 18 to 25 age group. A press conference is scheduled for May 2 in Jackson to release Mississippi public service announcements to the media. Efforts will include working with media, with schools, and with area businesses.

To find out more, visit www.whatadifference.org.