Mental illness is the only illness from my childhood that remains in the shadows. We need to change the culture surrounding emotional suffering and we need to begin by letting everyone know its five most common signs and that early detection and treatment yield great success.
– John Broderick, Former NH State Supreme Court Justice
Representatives from behavioral health, businesses, education, law enforcement, medical care, and policy makers in New Hampshire have joined together to launch the Campaign to Change Direction New Hampshire, the first state-wide effort of Change Direction, a national initiative to change the culture of mental health in America.
“Nearly one in five adults has a diagnosable mental health disorder,” explains Peter Evers, co-chair of Change Direction NH, and CEO of Riverbend Community Mental Health. “Learning the signs of emotional suffering can better open the door to treatment and getting people the help they deserve.”
“We are thrilled to be the first state to launch an effort like this,” says John Broderick, co-chair of Change Direction NH. “This is a conversation we, as a state, must have. Imagine a future where people can ask for help for mental disorders as easily as they seek treatment for a physical illness or injury.”
In 2016, Governor Maggie Hassan kicked-off Change Direction NH with Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Kelley Ayotte, Congresswoman Annie Kuster and Congressman Frank Guinta at the NH State House in Representatives Hall.
John, Annmarie and Dellie share their experiences with WMUR to change the conversation around mental health.
View the videos below:
Video clip from C-SPAN of Representative Kuster speaking about Change Direction in New Hampshire from the House Floor.
