"Too many Americans who struggle with mental health illnesses are still suffering in silence, rather than seeking help...help also needs to be there when people need it."

- President Obama, June 2013

President Obama recently spoke before a conference of mental health advocates on the importance of removing the stigma of mental illness and making sure people who need help are encouraged and able to receive support. While that support can come from many places, I believe that NAMI is the single most powerful tool we have collectively for fighting stigma. We are the largest grass roots organization that demonstrates our support for those impacted by mental health issues. NAMI as an organization has educational and support programs that work; that give people the information they need, the support they need and the resources they need to fight stigma. But, we need to continue to get the word out there about what we can do!

Have you ever mentioned NAMI to someone and found it was the first time they have ever heard of us? This happens to me constantly. With almost 25% of the world's population being impacted by mental illness, why is it that so few people have heard of our organization and even fewer take advantage of what we have to offer? It's certainly not because mental illness has a small impact. In fact, the statistics are daunting:

• One in every four adults experiences a mental health disorder in a given year
• In the US, Canada and Western Europe, mental illness accounts for 25% of all disability, compared to heart disease (5%) and cancer (3%)
• In any given day, 240,000 people with mental illness are homeless
• Over 50% of students with mental illness drop out of high school
• People suffering from severe mental illness die 20-25 years earlier than the general population
• The economic impact of mental illness in the US is estimated to be $79 billion dollars annually

The bottom line: Mental illness is a costly and debilitating illness that impacts everyone in one way or another.

While NAMI is a powerful tool, the organization alone is not going to change public perception of mental illness. That's what you and I are here to do! I am challenging you to be part of the solution and get involved with NAMI:

• Become a NAMI member.
• Form a walk team and make your opinion known October 12th during our largest mental health awareness event in the county.
• Tell your friends, neighbors and church groups about NAMI.

One person can make a difference. Many people standing together can change the world!

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