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What is Stigma?

Stigma is defined by the Merriman Webster Dictionary as “a mark, brand,: a mark of shame or discredit: an identifying mark or characteristic”.  As it relates to mental illness, stigma is reflected in commonly-held beliefs that are not based on fact but on opinion and misinformation.  Stigma remains one of the greatest barriers to early identification, intervention and treatment for Americans seeking help for mental illness. (American Psychiatric Association).  Stigma can be remedied through education, outreach, and spreading hope and compassion to those who need it.

Where do you present and to what kinds of audiences?

We have presented everywhere from national and international conferences to local clubhouses.  We customize our presentation to fit the needs of the audience, so there is no audience we can’t reach.  Among those we have reached are law enforcement officials, teenagers, members of faith communities, local business people, and social service care providers, to name just a few.  Do not hesitate to inquire about our presentation. We can customize a presentation to suit the needs of your audience.

What is mental illness?

Mental illnesses are medical conditions that disrupt a person’s thought patterns, moods, ability to relate to others and daily functioning.  They affect people of all ages, races, ethnicities and income. Like chronic physical illnesses, mental illnesses often affect the ability to cope with the ordinary demands of life.  Serious mental illnesses include major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and borderline personality disorder.

Can people recover from mental illness?

Although mental illness remains a serious public health issue, increasingly we know that people who experience it can be successfully treated and can live full productive lives.  Like other medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, the key to recovery is identifying the problem and taking active measures to treat it as soon as possible.(SAMHSA).

The best treatments for serious mental illnesses today are highly effective; between 70 and 90 percent of individuals have significant reduction of symptoms and improved quality of life with a combination of pharmacological and psychosocial treatments and supports (National Alliance for Mental Illness).

Stigma erodes confidence that mental disorders are real, treatable health conditions.  That is why it is especially important that we “stomp out stigma”.

Is there any cost for your presentations?

There is no charge for our presentations.

How can I help?

There are so many ways to help!  You can start by spreading the word about stigma and the importance of education about it.  “Like” the CNS Anti-Stigma page on Facebook and stay tuned to that page for information on advocacy efforts.  Most importantly, consider bringing us to your business, school, or community so that we can begin working together to Stomp Out Stigma!

How do I contact you or book a presentation?

You can book a presentation by clicking here or by going to the contact us page.

To book a presentation or learn more about the CNS Healthcare Anti-Stigma Program, call 248.409.4277 or send an email to