TRILLIUM FAMILY: (888) 295-6996 EMAIL MAKE A DONATION COVID RESPONSE PROGRAMS & SERVICES ADVOCACY BLOG TRAINING SUPPORT ABOUT CAREERS Stigma of Mental Illness Combating the Stigma of Mental Illness HOME › PROGRAMS AND SERVICES › WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH › STIGMA OF MENTAL ILLNESS Coping with a child’s mental health illness and finding the appropriate treatment are difficult tasks when a family is under stress. Family members, friends, neighbors and others may not understand what your family is dealing with. It may seem that outsiders are questioning your abilities as a parent or casting blame. You may feel isolated as you try to help your child, but you are not alone. It is not your fault. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, 44 million Americans experience mental illness every year. Unfortunately, the stigma of mental health often discourages people from seeking help. If a child has leukemia, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or asthma, the family gets support and compassion, but families of mentally ill children hear accusations and judgment from all sides. At Trillium, we strive to help families combat this stigma and seek the care that will allow their children to lead happy, healthy lives. Consider using the following lines when telling family, friends, and your child’s school that your child will be entering residential treatment: “We need and want your support and blessings. This is a very difficult decision for us, but our child needs this kind of specialized treatment.” “We know you have opinions about this, but please respect that we are trying everything that may help our child.” “I don’t have time to explain (psychiatry or treatment), but I appreciate you’re interest. Here’s Trillium’s website address where you can find lots of good information about this program and how it works.” “Please don’t judge if you haven’t walked in our shoes. If your solution works for kids with this disorder, please show me the evidence; I’d love to look at it.” “The facility has a regular public school, with specialized teachers, so they can keep up their education with their peers.” “Children’s mental health treatment is not as far behind as it used to be. New technology can precisely show how our child’s brain is different from normal. Our media paints an inaccurate picture of what’s really happening today.” Programs and Services Adoption Registry Information Community Services Financial Solutions For Prospective Clients Information Needed for Referrals National School Lunch Program Prevention Residential Services Success Stories What is Mental Health Who We Serve Why Trillium? Most Read Employment Opportunities Careers Trillium Family Services is fortunate to... Programs and Services Trillium is Oregon’s largest provider of mental and beh... LATEST POSTS The official blogspace of Trillium Family Services Trillium News 2021 KGW Great Toy Drive Promotional Video November 15, 2021 Facebook Twitter Email Trillium News Staff Self-Care Day 2021 [Video] November 4, 2021 Facebook Twitter Email Trillium News Trillium Brand Promise [Video] October 22, 2021 Facebook Twitter Email Make a Difference There are many ways you can help build a brighter future with us as we walk shoulder to shoulder with children, families and our communities.You can make a one-time contribution, schedule monthly donations, establish a trust or plan a bequest in your estate by clicking “donate” below. We are excited to collaborate with you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children facing emotional challenges. Join Trillium’s community of contributors today. Donate CALENDAR Upcoming events at Trillium Family Services ESPAÑOL ABOUT TRILLIUM Mission Trillium History Trillium Family Services Leadership Trillium Family Services Board of Trustees Facilities Calendar Media PROGRAMS & SERVICES Prevention Information Needed for Referrals Community Services For Prospective Clients Residential Services Why Trillium? Who We Serve What is Mental Health Financial Solutions Success Stories SUPPORT US Ways to Donate Donate Online Current Needs Planned Giving Volunteer Store Heroes Gala Charity Golf Classic CAREERS Employment Opportunities Human Resources SUBSCRIBE EMAIL* CONNECT TRILLIUM FAMILY 3415 SE Powell Blvd. (888) 295-6996 Terms of Use Privacy Policy Site Map