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Expansion of Mental Health Stigma Eradication Campaign Reaches Chautauqua County with State Grant
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The Anti-Stigma Coalition's Join the Conversation awareness campaign is set to expand into Chautauqua County, supported by a $7,000 grant from the New York State Office of Mental Health. This campaign aims to raise awareness about mental health and combat the stigma associated with mental illness, which often acts as a barrier preventing individuals from seeking the necessary help and treatment.
Having already implemented a comprehensive multimedia campaign in Erie and Niagara counties, encompassing broadcast, website, social media, digital advertising, email, and grassroots tools, the coalition has effectively disseminated its message. An independent polling organization has assessed the campaign's impact on community attitudes, revealing positive shifts in perceptions about mental illness and its treatment.
Carmelo Hernandez, Chautauqua County Director of Mental Health Services and Commissioner of Social Services, emphasized the importance of integrating mental health discussions into conversations and reaching community members through their preferred information channels. He expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, anticipating similar favorable outcomes witnessed in other counties.
The coalition's website and social media platforms actively engage the public, urging them to learn about mental health and take a pledge to combat the stigma surrounding mental illness. Over 3,985 individuals have already pledged their support. Additionally, the coalition provides valuable information on local resources and shares personal stories of triumph over mental health challenges.
Recognizing the need to reach Chautauqua County's 53,000 families, the coalition will utilize the grant funds to enhance digital and social media efforts, include county-specific resources on the website, create materials tailored to Chautauqua County, and organize outreach events.
The coalition's website, letstalkstigma.org, serves as a hub for information about their work, the awareness campaign, and available resources for individuals in Chautauqua, Erie, and Niagara counties. Visitors can also find video testimonials from individuals who have faced stigma and successfully addressed their mental health concerns, alongside previously aired TV spots.
