Moving Beyond Stigma
Description: The William James College Forum series convenes thought leaders to address societal issues that affect mental health.
This Forum is hosted by William James College and co-sponsored by: Association for Behavioral Healthcare, (ABH), Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Gosnold on Cape Cod, Health Resources and Services Administration, (HRSA), Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery, (MOAR), Massachusetts Health Council, (MHC), Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association, (MaMHCA), Massachusetts Psychiatric Society, (MPS), Massachusetts Psychological Association, (MPA), Massachusetts Public Health Association, (MPHA), New England Council of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, (NECCAP), New England Rural Health RoundTable, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Massachusetts, (NAMI), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, (SAMHSA), US Department of Health and Human Services, Region I (New England).
One in four Americans will develop a mental health problem or will misuse alcohol or drugs during their lifetime.
More Americans now die every year from drug overdoses than in motor vehicle crashes. Yet 89 percent of individuals estimated to be in need of treatment for a substance use disorder do not receive services.
Only 25 percent of people with a psychological condition feel that others are understanding or compassionate about their illness.
Eight in 10 workers say shame and stigma prevent them from seeking treatment for their mental illness
Prejudicial beliefs and attitudes associated with mental and substance use disorders are significant barriers to care. The forum will cover institutional, public and personal stigma, elucidate the factors that influence negative perceptions of mental and substance use disorders, highlight the impact of stigma, and explore strategies for change. Panel discussions will include: community leaders sharing their personal journeys of stigma; first-responders; and business leaders. The forum will provide ample time for networking and interacting with individuals from various agencies and businesses that address stigma.
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