Young people are often told we're too immature to understand pain. But I refused to be silenced. Instead, I cried louder. My turning point came when I was 18 years old and my friend Dina, who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, committed suicide.
By Kimberly Konkel, MSW, Associate Director for Health, HHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, and Anne Mathews-Younes, Ed.D., D.Min, Director of SAMHSA Division of Prevention, Traumatic Stress and Special Programs
A recent survey in North Carolina found depression rates among United Methodist clergy were twice as high as the general public. The researchers suggest that unique demands of the job put clergy mental health at risk. While many factors undoubtedly contribute, there might be another possible explanation – the trauma that clergy encounter on a daily basis.
By Paolo Del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
To highlight the importance of peer support, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is making it the national focus of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day.
By Andrea Blanch Ph.D., Director, Center for Religious Tolerance, and Kimberly Konkel MSW, Associate Director for Health, Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships
Across the country, there is a growing movement to create “trauma-informed” services, organizations and communities. This movement reflects an understanding that psychological trauma and toxic stress are near-universal experiences that can affect every aspect of life, and that everyone has a role to play in addressing the issue.
By John Kelly Ph.D., School Psychologist, Commack High School with Erin Reiney, MPH, CHES, Health Resources and Services Administration
In my 27 years as a school psychologist, I have seen an increase in how many students and families are concerned about bullying. I have witnessed first-hand the damage it can cause –not only to the children being bullied, but also to those who witness bullying, and even to kids who bully.
By Mary Wakefield Ph.D., R.N., Administrator, Health Resources and Services Administration, and Jannette Dupuy Ph.D., M.S., HRSA Bureau of Primary Health Care
Because behavioral and physical health problems are often connected, delivery of behavioral health services by health centers can reduce stigma and discrimination and improve overall health outcomes.
By Chelsea Perugini, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Duke University professors published research that shows the degree to which bullying can affect someone’s mental health. The study followed more than 1,000 youth, starting at the ages of 9, 11 and 13. The youth were interviewed each year until they turned 16. Follow-up interviews were then conducted into adulthood.
By Tiffany Farchione M.D., Division of Psychiatry Products, Food and Drug Administration
FDA-approved labeling helps guide doctors' treatment choices. However, when a medication has not been studied in children, there is no information in the FDA-approved label to guide prescribing for this age group. This can lead to what is known as “off-label” use of a prescription drug.
By Howard K. Koh, MD, MPH, Assistant Secretary for Health, Department of Health and Human Services
On December 1, 2013, we marked the 25th observance of World AIDS Day. This year, my hope is that we can address the shame and social rejection that puts people at risk for two serious health issues—HIV and suicide.
By Donald B. Moulds, Acting Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, Health and Human Services
The Parity Act makes it easier for Americans to get the care they need by prohibiting certain discriminatory practices that limit coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment and services.
By Charlotte Mullican, Senior Advisor for Mental Health Research, AHRQ
Primary care doctors see patients with many different health issues, including people with mental health disorders. Some primary care doctors also have a mental health provider in their offices that can help those who need this care.
By Pamela Hyde, Administrator, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Mental illness has been in the news a lot lately, and it's good that we as a nation are talking about it. We now have more tools than ever to make a real difference and provide treatment for those experiencing mental illness.
