“A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness”

I recently viewed the documentary “A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness,” and found it incredibly interesting. Narrated by mental health advocate, Glenn Close, the documentary interviews several inspiring individuals with various mental illnesses. Among those interviewed includes retired politician, Patrick Kennedy and Olympic diver, Greg Louganis.

The state of California has been on the forefront of mental health services for more than a decade with the passing of Proposition 63, now known as the Mental Health Services Act. To date, Prop 63 has generated nearly $8 billion dollars towards improving the quality of life for Californians living with a mental illness. This documentary  is a product of the additional funds.

“Each Mind Matters” is California’s new campaign started by individuals and organizations that are dedicated to mental illness and equality. They believe that stigma is the great barrier to mental wellness.
“What is affecting us the most is stigma. When two-thirds of people with access to mental health care never take advantage of it because of the stigma, that is a real problem,” Patrick Kennedy confirms.

In order to fight the stigma surrounding mental health here in Omaha, we must band together as a community and start the conversation!

To learn more, or watch the documentary, go to:
http://www.eachmindmatters.org/get-informed/
http://www.eachmindmatters.org/great-minds-gallery/view-the-film/

About Jill Sauser, Project Coordinator, The Kim Foundation
Jill has a B.S. in Journalism (PR/Advertising) and a Minor in Speech Communication from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. During her time at UNO, she completed a two year PR practicum program where she worked with numerous nonprofit clients including the MS Society, The Archdiocese of Omaha, and YWCA. Jill joined The Kim Foundation as Project Coordinator in April 2014.