The Mental Health Stigma

Vets can lead fight on mental health stigma

As Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., introduced former first lady Rosalynn Carter and her new book about mental health care, he predicted the people who will do the most to improve mental health care and reduce the stigma of getting that care across the nation: veterans.

At the Library of Congress Wednesday, Kennedy spoke of the “signature injuries” of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury — and how veterans talking about and combating stigma for those injuries could normalize mental health issues throughout the country.

As combat veterans grow increasingly comfortable with seeking care, civilians may, too, he said.

“It’s not about an issue,” he said. “It’s about personally wanting to help the people we love.” Continues Here

Rosalynn Carter's Book: "Within Our Reach" Ending the Mental Health Crisis, Rosalynn Carter and coauthors Susan K. Golant and Kathryn E. Cade.