Michelle Obama launches “Change Directions” mental health campaign to raise awareness for mental health problems, erase stigma, and encourage people to get help. Mrs. Obama calls mental health care not just a budget and policy problem, but also a cultural problem because of stigma. 40 million Americans suffer from a diagnosable mental health issue, but many don’t get the help they need. Mrs. Obama says there should be no shame in seeking mental health care, and a change in mental health care requires a shift in “our attitudes”.
“At the root of this dilemma is the way we view mental health in this country,” Mrs.Obama said. “Whether an illness affects your heart, your leg or your brain, it’s still an illness, and there should be no distinction.”
The Change Directions Mental Health Campaign
A major goal of “Change Directions” is for more people to recognize the signs of emotional distress, which include withdrawal, agitation, hopelessness, disregard for personal care, and personality change. Mental health issues affect one in five adults, and anyone with serious emotional problems should receive mental health care.
The “Change Directions” campaign was created by the nonprofit Give An Hour, which offers free mental health services to U.S. military personnel and their families. Other participants include:
- Aetna
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- America’s Promise Alliance
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Change.org
- Justice for Vets
- National Council for Behavioral Health
Mental Health Treatment at Morningside Recovery
Recognizing the signs of mental illness is just the first step in the treatment journey. Morningside Recovery is the premiere center in mental heath and addiction treatment in Orange County, California. Our facility hosts a variety of drug addiction treatment, mental health treatment, and dual diagnosis services.
If you notice that someone in your life is exhibiting signs of mental illness, let them know it’s okay to reach out for help. For more information on our mental health programs, call us today at 855-631-2135. Help is out there, you just have to take the first step.
