SLO The Stigma

SLOtheStigma is part of a groundbreaking community effort to raise public awareness of mental health and treatment resources. Launched in January 2010, SLOtheStigma was the first campaign of its kind in San Luis Obispo County, designed to decrease the stigma of mental illness; increase awareness of mental health issues; and guide individuals who have a mental illness and their families to local mental health resources.

The project was funded by The Mental Health Services Act through San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health Services and in cooperation with Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA).

TMHA collaborated with local a marketing firm (20|20 Creative Group) to produce a fifteen-minute documentary telling the stories of four San Luis Obispo County residents with depression, bi-polar disorder or schizophrenia. The stories shed light on their struggles, diagnoses, and treatment…while providing hope to others. Seven years later, it remains a vital example of the power of telling one’s story.

THE TRUTH ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS

Nobody chooses to break their leg. Or have diabetes. Or, for that matter, have a mental illness. All of these conditions are treatable—and require more than the desire to “snap out of it.” Mental illness is not a life sentence. There is help and hope, and treatment can make all the difference.

The stigma and discrimination associated with mental illnesses often keeps those who need and want help from seeking treatment. There is no need to go it alone.

When someone you care about has a mental illness, it impacts both of your lives in very real ways. Each year, 57 million adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder. There’s a good chance you know one of them. Offer your support.

SEEKING HELP: If you are concerned about the way you’re feeling, let someone else know. Tell a trusted friend or family member. There is no shame in asking for help.

If you need help for yourself or somebody else, immediate help is available in San Luis
Obispo County. Call 800.783.0607. You’ll talk to someone right now. It’s free and confidential.

HELPING OTHERS: Helping someone else with his or her recovery is no small task. Connecting with others can benefit you and your friend or loved one. To find out more about local services and supports, call 800.783.0607.