By RADM Boris D. Lushniak, M.D., M.P.H., Acting U.S. Surgeon General
Most people don't realize how common mental health and substance abuse problems are in the United States. Just as there are many types of physical illness, mental illness is varied and can affect people at all stages of life. In fact, at some time in their lives, nearly all Americans will be affected by a mental health or substance use disorder in themselves or their families.
By Kimberly Konkel, Associate Director for Health, HHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships
This World Suicide Prevention Day, an experience Sister G, a Mormon missionary, shared with me comes to mind. Sister G. was a widow whose husband, a neurosurgeon, died of brain cancer 5 years prior to her being my missionary partner.
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 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.
