NeuroTalk Support Groups - Kudos to the Ad Council

I remember someone in here discussing teenage suicide and how their daughter knew of other teenagers who were talking about, or planning, suicide. But these kids really don't discuss it with those people that they need to. Or other kids are caught completely off guard.

One of my coworkers, a professor of special education, told me awhile back that the Ad Council was coming out with a campaign for mental health targeted primarily at ages 18-25, but I believe anyone watching the ads could relate.

The sponsor organization for the campaign is the US Department of Health & Human Services,Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). I've just started seeing their television advertisements and I think they're done really well. They also have radio spots.

I hope adults as well get the message that they are trying to convey. Adults need friends who understand too. :hug:

Quote:

Mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder are widespread. In 2005 there were an estimated 24.6 million adults age 18 or older who experienced serious psychological distress (SPD), which is highly correlated with serious mental illness.

Among 18-25 year olds, the prevalence of SPD is high (18.6 % for 18-25, vs. 11.3% for all adults 18+) yet this age group shows the lowest rate of help-seeking behaviors. Further, those with mental health conditions in this age group have a high potential to minimize future disability and pursue recovery if they receive the right support and services early on.

In an effort to provide these young adults with a better chance at recovery, this campaign seeks to reach adults ages 18-25 with a message of acceptance and understanding of mental illness. It hopes to encourage friends to offer their support to a friend who has been diagnosed with a mental illness.

Ad Council - National Mental Health Anti-Stigma

What a Difference a Friend Makes