New Mental Health Public Information Resource, American Psychiatric Association

Main Category: Mental Health
Article Date: 05 May 2005 - 8:00 PDT

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The American Psychiatric Association (APA) today announced the launch of HealthyMinds.org, a new consumer-oriented Web site that seeks to inform and educate the public about mental health treatment and resources.

http://www.HealthyMinds.org

The site was launched as a component of APA's "Healthy Minds. Healthy Lives." public information campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues during May, which is observed nationally as "Mental Health Month."

A recent survey showed that the Internet is the number one media source Americans turn to for health and nutrition information.

"Stigma around mental illness persists, and the Web provides easy access to consumers who want to learn more about maintaining their mental health," said APA Medical Director James H. Scully Jr., M.D. "Our previous information efforts focused primarily on health care providers. We're pleased to now offer a free public service resource through HealthyMinds.org - which is just a click away, night and day, for anyone who seeks this information."

The core of the Web site is information on many common mental health concerns, including warning signs of mental disorders, treatment options, and prevention measures. In addition, the site features:

-- A search function;

-- The latest medical information from independent news sources;

-- Links to other mental health resources;

-- How to locate a psychiatrist; and

-- Access to fact sheets and APA's "Let's Talk Facts" brochure series - factual, science-based information on a variety of disorders, ranging from depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety to common childhood disorders, teen suicide, and eating disorders. The brochures are free for the general public and can be purchased by health care providers, health care and academic institutions and businesses that seek to improve consumer understanding of mental health disorders.

"HealthyMinds.org is being developed as a comprehensive resource for people seeking information, but it's also a source of understanding and hope - because we know that treatment works," said Dr. Scully. "And since safe, effective treatments are available, Americans can have what everyone wants - healthy minds and healthy lives. That's the message of the site."

The HealthyMinds.org site also features public service announcements (PSAs), a key part of the APA's national public information campaign, "Healthy Minds. Healthy Lives." The PSAs will air on TV and radio and appear in print throughout Mental Health Month and beyond.

For more information on HealthyMinds.org, log on today. Additional information about APA can also be found at http://www.psych.org.

About the American Psychiatric Association:

The American Psychiatric Association is a national medical specialty society whose nearly 36,000 physician members specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illnesses including substance use disorders. Healthy Minds. Healthy Lives. Care that works to get your mind healthy again so you can lead a healthy life.

http://www.HealthyMinds.org