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December 04, 2006 - The Substance Abuse
and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in partnership
with the Ad Council, today launched a national awareness public
service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to decrease the
negative attitudes that surround mental illness and encourage
young adults to support their friends who are living with
mental health problems.
According to SAMHSA, in 2005 there were
an estimated 24.6 million adults aged 18 or older who experienced
serious psychological distress (SPD), which is highly correlated
with serious mental illness. Among 18 to 25 year olds, the
prevalence of SPD is high (18.6 percent for 18-25, vs. 11.3
percent for all adults 18 years of age and older). But this
age group shows the lowest rate of help-seeking behaviors.
Additionally, those with mental health conditions in this
segment have a high potential to minimize future disability
if social acceptance is broadened and they receive the right
support and services early on.
The PSA campaign aims to reach 18- to 25-year-old
adults who have friends living with mental illnesses. It highlights
the importance of their providing support. Television and
radio spots illustrate how friendship is the key to recovery.
The campaign also includes print and interactive advertising
that directs audiences to visit a new comprehensive Web site,
www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov
to learn more about mental health and what they can do to
play a role in their friend's recovery.
To view the ads or learn more about the
campaign, please visit www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov.
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