Normalizing Mental health by Lifting the Stigma of Mental Illness

Recent statistics suggest that 1 out of every 5 adults in the United States are currently experiencing a mental illness. Despite improvements within the medical field, increased availability to therapy services via telehealth options, and increased mental health awareness due to a global pandemic and social media; most individuals with a mental illness and/or intellectual disabilities still experience significant barriers due to the stigmas associated with mental illness and disabilities. This session will provide a general overview of the most recent prevalence rates of mental illness, investigate the stigmas associated with mental illness and intellectual disabilities, and describe similarities and differences in the ways that physical illness and mental illness are treated. In addition, this session will also explore future considerations for assessing, measuring, and communicating information related to mental health issues to medical professionals and the general public. The aim of this session is to provide a discussion about the current state of mental health services in the United States; as well as to encourage a movement towards a normalized societal view of mental health and disabilities, through a more focused clinical approach to the treatment of mental illness.

Recorded on July 17, 2024