One looks at adult mental health in the workplace. Committee members planning the local campaign want to see less of a stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness. Fear and misunderstanding can prevent people from getting help, said Gene Bonynge, director of Woodland Centers. People in general in the community have a hard time relating to mental health. The message needs to be emphasized that mental illness can be successfully treated, said Marcia Dewane of the Kandiyohi County local advisory council on mental health.
People get better.
They stay better. But prevention often is difficult because many health plans won't cover mental health care until an individual is seriously ill, she said. We have to be able to get services to people before they are in such sad shape. The funding system contributes to stigma. Committee members also saw a need for services that are readily accessible, better training for school, health care and other professionals to recognize and deal with mental health issues, and services that meet the needs of people of color.