As Executive Director of Mental  Health America, my ability to convey the value of our programs is paramount!  You may wonder, why the emphasis on Mental Health in my opening sentence? Any time I talk about our programs, I prepare myself for one of a few reactions. Often, the subject of mental health is met with what is meant to be humor by saying "Oh, I need to see you!" or "My wife/husband needs some mental health treatment!" or many times just an awkward half-smile, half-grimace that says "that's important work you're doing."  It is understandably difficult to acknowledge that each and every one one of us is affected by or  experienced an episode of depression or diagnosis of mental illness in ourselves or a family member.  Many people have seen firsthand the loss of someone to suicide.  My response is always, "We all struggle and have issues." Because I believe this is the truth, I don't shy away from the mission of Mental Health America.  I explain that our programs are designed to meet people in crisis and intervene with supports to promote positive mental health.

       According to a national report released by SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, one in five adults was affected by a mental illness in the past year.  This sobering statistic makes our efforts even more critical. It's more important than ever for our agency to continue to respond in a positive manner.

     On June 8th, our annual fundraiser, Aiken's Cookin' with Celebrity Chefs will be held at The Willcox. Please join us in  acknowledging the need for our programs by purchasing a ticket to the event. The tickets are available at Tea Garden Gifts, Material Things, The Willcox and our office at 233 Pendleton St. NW. The $50.00 you spend for a ticket will benefit homeless families living at Nurture Home; will prepare new mothers for the stress of parenting; will enable us to provide critical training and support to students in Aiken on depression and suicide; will benefit and uplift adults with mental illness.  If you've never visited our website, please do so at www.mha-aiken.org and you will see the extent of our efforts to respond positively to the subject matter of mental health.