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Top Story Archive

2009 NOVEMBER Survey Reveals Big Gap in Understanding of Depression View survey results, test your depression knowledge and browse expanded coverage in NAMI's new special section on depression. Unprecedented Army Suicide Rate The 2009 Army suicide rate is expected top last year’s record high. Senate Unveils Health Care Bill Senate Democrats have unveiled their $849 billion health care bill. Learn more today! Help Expand Access to Affordable Housing NAMI is currently supporting two major housing initiatives in Congress. Learn more and take action today! Mental Health on Campus Recent national surveys indicate that an unprecedented number of college students are requesting psychiatric help. OCTOBER NAMI Calls for Increase in NIH Funding "Medical research is the source of hope for people living with serious mental illness," says Michael Fitzpatrick, NAMI Executive Director. Economy's Toll on Mental Health New National Survey Finds Jobless Individuals Four Times as Likely To Report Serious Problems NAMI Launches New PSA Campaign NAMI's PSA initiative encourages people to connect with each other through NAMI to help themselves and others affected by mental illness. SEPTEMBER Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder People living with obsessive-compulsive disorder share their experiences. The President's Speech & Mental Health Care NAMI responds to President Obama's remarks on health care to the Joint Session of Congress. AUGUST Health Care Reform President Obama expresses his desire to include mental health care as part of health care reform during a New Hampshire town hall meeting. NAMI Meets with President Obama at White House NAMI Executive Director Michael Fitzpatrick joined a group of representatives from the disability community for an historic meeting. JULY Death Penalty and Mental Illness Families of Victims Speak out at National Convention; “Double Tragedies” Report Released MAY Restraint and Seclusion in Schools NAMI has participated in a White House meeting to discuss government action on a report detailing shocking restraint and seclusion practices in schools. APRIL The Soloist: A Call to Action NAMI launches a new Web site as part of a social action campaign with Participant Media surrounding the release of The Soloist. MARCH Grading the States 2009 NAMI's new report, Grading the States 2009, assesses the nation's public mental health care system for adults. The national average grade is a D. FEBRUARY NAMI NYC Unveils Innovative Site NAMI New York City Metro introduces an online resource to help New Yorkers navigate the city's complex mental health system. JANUARY HOUSE T-Shirts Benefit NAMI Hit television drama debuts a new t-shirt to support NAMI. Inaugural Invitation President-elect Barack Obama to honor NAMI's Matt Kuntz in Whistle Stop Tour. Medicare A new study reports that Medicare enrollees with parity insurance are more likely to receive timely outpatient care. 2008 DECEMBER Support NAMI! There are many ways to contribute in support of NAMI's programs this holiday season- and many include significant tax benefits. Cultural Healing A growing immigrant population highlights a need for improved, culturally competent mental health services in the United States. Health and Wellness People with severe mental illness die on average 25 years earlier than the general population. NOVEMBER Children and Mental Illness Nebraska law exposes mental health system in crisis. Scientific Research Scientists publish new theory on the link between parents, genes, and mental illness. Veterans Day NAMI releases a new PTSD brochure, intended to help individuals experiencing symptoms or diagnosed with the illness. OCTOBER Election 2008: Vote November 4! Be an informed voter. Learn the positions of candidates and parties before you vote. Economic Crisis and Mental Health International financial crisis increases mental health problems. Victory on Parity NAMI applauds bipartisan mental illness insurance parity bill. SEPTEMBER Hurricane Disaster Relief NAMI has established a special fund to help individuals and families affected by serious mental illnesses in Lousiana and Texas. AUGUST Take This Survey NAMI is grading states in 2009 on their public mental health services and invites you to help by taking an online survey. Schizophrenia New genetic findings may mean "new era" in understanding the disease. JULY Bipolar Disorder Listen to the stories of men and women living with bipolar disorder. New York Outrage Hospital attendants ignored dying woman with mental illness. JUNE Covering the Uninsured State healthcare reforms fail to address mental illness and substance use disorders. New NAMI Report Twice as many Americans live with schizophrenia as HIV/AIDS, but most people are unfamiliar with the disease. MAY Schizophrenia MTV profiles young people living with schizophrenia. NAMI’s Singin’ Scientist: Teaching the World to Sing Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph.D. has been named by TIME Magazine as one of "the world’s 100 most influential people." APRIL Women and Depression NAMI releases a new brochure, Women and Depression, about the many dimensions of major depression in women. Genetic Testing Congress is moving to prohibit employment and insurance bias. Wounds of War A new study shows almost 300,000 in the armed forces affected by mental illness Schizophrenia Restrictive drug policies cause more harm than good. MARCH Bipolar Disorder NAMI members share personal stories on ABC's Good Morning America. Mental Health Insurance The House of Representatives passes a parity bill, but tough negotiations lie ahead. FEBRUARY Bipolar Disorder Tests Researchers are closer to identifying blood testing for diagnosis of bipolar disorder Northern Illinois University Tragedy renews the call for mental health reforms Fighting Stigma NAMI parents speak out about mental illness on NBC’s TODAY Show. "I Always Felt Different" Students speak out about their experiences living with ADHD. JANUARY NAMI Blog Read actress Patty Duke’s guest entry. Media Ethics Backlash: stop “diagnosing” Britney Spears. Election 2008 Presidential candidates answer questionnaire on mental healthcare. Depression and Diabetes A new study suggests a link between chronic depression and Type 2 diabetes. 2007 DECEMBER 'Tis the Season for Giving NAMI offers several ways to contribute in support of our programs - and many of these ways have significant tax benefits for you. Prison Suicide Crisis Massachusetts state prison investigation exposes deadly pattern of abuse and neglect of inmates with mental illness. Military NAMI protests U.S. Army treatment of soldier. NOVEMBER Schizophrenia Studies suggest an increased risk due to infections during pregnancy. Veterans Resource Center Launched Online Veterans Resource Center to help support active duty military personnel, veterans and their families facing serious mental illnesses. The Continuing Crisis Mental health problems from Hurricane Katrina are devastating the region. OCTOBER Lilly Reintegration Awards NAMI receives a national award for advocacy in helping people with severe mental illnesses. Spotlight on NAMI Education Programs The Psychiatric Times reports on NAMI’s successful and expanding education programs. Gulf States and Hurricane Katrina Funding problems are part of Hurricane Katrina’s continuing legacy. House Fails to Override SCHIP Veto The US House fell 13 votes short of overriding the SCHIP veto. Help "Unmask" Mental Illness Make a donation in support of research and veterans for NAMI's 3rd annual gala. Mental Illness Awareness Week MIAW 2007 will be observed nationwide Oct. 7-13. Learn more. SEPTEMBER A Major Victory The U.S. Senate passes legislation for equitable mental health insurance coverage. Cancer and Mental Illness Researchers suggest that mental health problems can affect cancer patients more than physical pain. Youth Suicides Increase Two new studies report an unprecedented rise in the number of suicides among children. Mental Health in Developing Countries Health experts call on poor nations to offer more mental health services. AUGUST Virginia Tech Tragedy A stunning report to Virginia’s governor has national implications. PTSD Increase in Gulf Coast The results of a new survey suggest that more Hurricane Katrina survivors are considering suicide or exhibiting symptoms of PTSD. U. S. Army Suicide Report The Army reports the highest suicide rate in 26 years. Mental Illness: Police Training TIME reports on crisis intervention training for police. JULY Drug Use Linked to Risk of Mental Illness A new study reports on possible link between marijuana use and psychosis. Hurricane Katrina Two years later, New Orleans still faces a failing health care system. Children especially are at risk. Congressional Update The first major step toward passing insurance parity has been taken in the U.S. House of Representatives. JUNE Mental Illness & Death Penalty The Supreme Court has blocked the execution of a Texas man who suffers from severe mental illness. Veterans: A Critical Concern Mental healthcare reform vital within Veteran's Administration system. NAMI Honors Media Awards presented at national convention to journalists, author, filmmaker. Virginia Tech, Stigma Concerns Open NAMI Convention Leaders discuss impact of national issues on future of mental health system. Building Our Movement, Building Our Future 2007 NAMI convention opens this week in San Diego. President's Virginia Tech Report The U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services has released the "Report to the President on Issues Raised by the Virginia Tech Tragedy." NAMI Applauds "Network of Care" NAMI supports the Network of Care and its innovative approach to wellness and recovery through user-friendly online tools. NAMI Honors Exemplary Psychiatrists 18 physicians are honored with "Exemplary Psychiatrists Awards" at the APA annual meeting. MAY NAMI's Own Receives Welcome Back Award Sylvia Axelrod is honored for her tireless work in breaking down the stigma of depression. Fighting Stigma on Campus Read the personal story of a college student and how she uses her own life to teach others about mental illness. Nancy Grace Promotes NAMI The Grand Marshall of the NAMI NYC Walks program will be appearing as a guest on the Nancy Grace show on Friday evening. APRIL HOUSE calls for NAMI The hit television drama HOUSE is helping NAMI raise funds and awareness for mental illness. Virginia Tech Tragedy: Responses and Resources NAMI extends sympathy to those who lost loved ones and offers resources for those coping in the aftermath. Virginia Tech Tragedy NAMI extends sympathy to families who lost loved ones and distinguishes mental illness from violence. Antidepressants and Kids A new review concludes that the benefits of antidepressant medications for children and teens appear to be much greater than the risks. Managing Mental Illness Free on-line video and workbook focus on diet, exercise, and smoking cessation. Intensive Psychotherapy Effective in Bipolar Treatment NIMH study shows intensive psychotherapy more effective than brief "collaborative care." MARCH New study on bipolar disorder released Study from the New England Journal of Medicine on the effect of antidepressants on bipolar disorder. In Our Own Voice National Public Radio shares a voice of courage, wisdom and hope that helps everyone to understand mental illness. Research Sheds Light on Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia New gene study finds link between immune system and schizophrenia. NAMI Releases New Booklet NAMI has released "A Family Guide to Mental Health: What You Need to Know," oriented especially to African-American families. Mental Health in the Military Soldiers come home to face poor conditions or treatment. Schizophrenia Drug Studies The latest studies show that "one size does not fit all" and medication alone is not enough for effective treatment. FEBRUARY Men and Depression A Newsweek cover story focuses on 6 million men with depression. HELP Committee Says Yes The Senate HELP Committee voted in favor of parity paving the way for a vote in the full Senate. Pass Parity Now Congress may soon vote to end discrimination against mental illness in health insurance. JANUARY NAMI to Increase Support Groups NAMI will significantly expand its support group program for people with mental illnesses to all 50 states and Puerto Rico by 2009. NAMI Calls for Federal Investigation Neglect, abuse and poor medical care in Georgia's state hospital system. State leaders call for reforms. Mental Illness Screening The New England Journal of Medicine clarifies misconceptions about screening teenagers for mental illness. Key Victories Ohio and New York have joined a majority of states with mental health parity laws. 2006 DECEMBER Best Books, Movies and TV of '06 Year provides an array of positive portrayals of the issues related to mental illness. Help for the Holidays New brochure offers tips for persons with mental illnesses, their families and friends, and their faith communities. FDA Hearing on Suicide Risk Higher risk is found among adult users of antidepressants ages 18-25. Mental Illness and College New York Times reports on two families with children in college with mental illness and how NAMI on Campus has been part of their recovery. New Mothers and Mental Illness Denmark study finds that new mothers have higher risks of psychiatric illness in the 3 months following childbirth. Anti-Stigma Campaign Launched New public service announcements targeted to 18-25 year olds are designed to decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness. Schizophrenia Research NIMH study of schizophrenia drugs requires "new thinking" in research, not restrictions based on cost. NOVEMBER NAMI Mourns Loss Best-selling author Bebe Moore Campbell passes away. NAMI reflects on her life and contributions. Adult Home Standards A fire in Missouri kills 10 people and raises new concern over residential standards for people with mental illnesses. Why Are You Thankful? On Hotsoup.com, "1 Average Joe USA" is thankful for his wife and three children who "lift me up when I am way down." A National Problem Florida provides a case study of everything wrong about treating mental illness in prisons and jails. Improved BPD Treatment Many professionals have considered Borderline Personality Disorder to be almost untreatable. Read about a promising new treatment. Hurricane Katrina: Mental Illness One year later, survivors testify about psychological devastation, including 300% increase in suicide. Suicide among African Americans A new study that could help explode the myth that black suicides are rare was recently released by the Univ. of Michigan. Depression Drug Study If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again—but choosing the right medication at the very start is important. NAMI Partners With HOTSOUP.COM NAMI is teaming with a new, on-line community, HOTSOUP.COM, as part of an experiment to transform national debate into constructive dialogue. OCTOBER Halloween Stigma In a front-page story, The Chicago Tribune has focused national attention to NAMI's grassroots protests of haunted "insane asylums." Childhood Struggles Follow Haley Abaspour and her family as they struggle with childhood mental illness. NAMI Honors Researcher For his research on Bipolar Disorder, Dr. Charles L. Bowden received a $50,000 award NAMI at the Second Annual NAMI Research Gala. Medical Bill Woes New Study finds one in four American households had trouble paying their medical bills during the past 12 months. Telemedicine Expands Access to Treatment Video communication may fill a gap in areas where psychiatrists are few and far between. New vs. Old Medications A new study of antipsychotic drugs used in treating schizophrenia has major implications for national and state policies. SEPTEMBER The Future of Drug Safety The Institute of Medicine releases a report recommending more money, people and power to enable the FDA to achieve its mission. Survey of Caregivers The disruption of a family member's treatment for mental illness can have harsh financial, physical and emotional consequences for families. Depression is Real NAMI and six non-profit organizations have joined together to launch a public education campaign to tell Americans the truth about depression. Get Involved NAMI leader speaks out on a model of care for crisis psychiatric services. Learn more and write your own letter today. Mental Illness of Prison Inmates Worse Than Past Estimates A Dept. of Justice Report shows that the prevalence of mental illness is 2 to 3 times greater than anyone imagined. AUGUST Hurricane Katrina: One Year Later The region has barely recovered. This is especially true for people with serious mental illnesses. Access to care was poor even before the disaster. Update on Suicide Hotline As of September 25, 2006, SAMHSA is maintaining 1-800-SUICIDE. New Study Shows Relief from Depression in Hours For people with treatment resistant depression, there’s reason for new hope. JULY Andrea Yates Verdict Justice has been served by the finding of a Texas jury that Andrea Yates is "not guilty by reason of insanity." Report Uncovers Discrimination in Government Relief Efforts People with mental illness in areas affected by Hurricane Katrina suffered discrimination in evacuation efforts. New Depression Survey Results Individuals with depression and limited access to treatment incurred an average of nearly three times the annual out-of-pocket costs. Summit Results in Action Plan NAMI's landmark Multicultural Strategic Summit charts course to eliminate disparities in healthcare. JUNE NAMI Honors the CBS Television Network CBS Cares is being honored for running public service announcements on depression during primetime. CNN features Depression On Thursday, June 22nd CNN's American Morning featured NAMI member Jaye Lombard as she shared her story of recovery from depression. Children of Depressed Parents A new study has found that children of depressed parents are at higher risk for psychiatric and medical problems. MAY Ask the Experts Webcast Kaiser Family Foundation will be holding a live webcast on Thursday, June 1st, on mental health care. NAMI Honors Exemplary Psychiatrists Sixteen Psychiatrists were honored for their work in disaster psychiatry by NAMI at the APA meeting in Toronto. NAMI Members Honored Two NAMI members were recently honored with Welcome Back Awards for their work in helping reshape the mental health system. News Alert: Mike Wallace on CBS On Sunday, May 21st, 60 Minutes will highlight Mike Wallace's career with a poignant discussion about his struggle with depression. Public Still Lacks Mental Health Knowledge A recent survey found a significant lack of knowledge and understanding of mental illness. MARCH Nation's Mental Healthcare System Gets "D" Grade The United States gets a D grade in helping adults with serious mental illnesses, according to the first state-by-state report on the nation's mental healthcare system in more than 15 years. JANUARY An Alternative to Incarceration Mental Health Courts provide an alternative to incarceration. Read more about these specialized courts. Study Looks at Treatment-Resistant Depression Initial results from NIMH study measure effectiveness of depression treatment. 2005 DECEMBER Get Better Coverage Read a new guide for companies on how to craft effective healthcare contracts that cover both mental health and general healthcare. NAMI Responds to Miami Shooting NAMI calls upon the Federal Air Marshal Service to ensure officers are prepared to respond to individuals with mental illness. 1st National Survey of School Mental Health Released One-fifth of students receive some type of school-supported mental health services during the school year. OCTOBER New Website Launched Leading mental health organizations have joined together to create a central resource on Medicare’s new prescription drug benefit. SEPTEMBER CATIE raises more questions than answers Tools available to help understand the study, its implications, and the unanswered questions that remain. Remembering Wayne Fenton The NAMI family is shocked and deeply saddened by the the tragic death of Dr. Wayne Fenton. AUGUST National Depression Survey Released Results of a new national survey reveal a disparity between what people with depression say they know about their illness and how they manage it. covering kids & families NAMI's partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation aims to inform families of eligibility for state health programs including Medicaid. JULY Roadmap for Mental Health Reform Sixteen national organizations release "Emergency Response: A Roadmap for Federal Action on America’s Mental Health Crisis." Federal Mental Health Action Agenda Seven federal level cabinet departments announce collaborative effort to provide opportunity for recovery. JUNE Response to Tom Cruise's Today Show Interview The mental health community has responded to Tom Cruise's interview with facts about mental illness. Transforming the Mental Health System Davis calls for bold leadership to implement President’s New Freedom Commission report. Spotlight on Asian American and Pacific Islander Mental Health NAMI brings together consumers, family members, researchers and providers for special seminar. New Study Released A new NIMH funded study, titled "Mental Illness Exacts Heavy Toll, Beginning in Youth" shows the need for early intervention. MAY Get Connected! NAMI's newest e-newsletter, The NAMI Connection, provides lively news, feature stories and useful information to help keep you in touch. APRIL National Cover the Uninsured Week NAMI is proud to be a national sponsor of Cover the Uninsured Week, May 1-8, dedicated to bringing attention to the plight of the uninsured. Campaign Launches in Illinois NAMI Illinois joins with community partners to release new report, launch statewide "Campaign for the Mind of America" Campaign Launches in Washington NAMI Washington joins with law enforcement, physicians, educators to launch statewide "Campaign for the Mind of America" Campaign Launches in Ohio NAMI's Campaign for the Mind of America issues plan "To Lift the Burden" of untreated mental illness in the state. MARCH Georgia Graduates First CIT Officers The first of 3000 officers to receive Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training to respond to individuals with mental illness have graduated. States Push Parity Forward Washington State has made mental health parity law while Iowa continues to push it forward through the legislature. FEBRUARY Keeping Families Together Act Legislation aimed at ending custody relinquishment to secure access to much needed health care has been reintroduced in Congress. JANUARY Clint Black Concert for NAMI Country music superstar Clint Black recently held a benefit concert for NAMI and NAMI Tennessee entitled "A Time for Hope." The Rewards of Employment For Ed Wohlford, a consumer in Florida, the rewards of his work surpass his paycheck. 2004 DECEMBER Hearts & Minds Mental health is only part of staying healthy. Physical fitness can help improve lives and life spans. CIT Continues to Expand Crisis Intervention Teams are expanding into nearly every state. Georgia is now seeing teams for the very first time. Campus Services Expanding USA Today reports about the expansion of mental health services on campus and student willingness to access such services. Advances in Brain Imaging A recent study shows significant differences between the brains of healthy individuals and those with bipolar disorder. NOVEMBER Coping With Winter Depression Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real mood disorder that affects many people. Learn more about it and how to cope with it this winter. New Jersey's First Family Champions Mental Health New Acting Governor Richard J. Codey and wife, Mary Jo, make mental health reform a priority in the state. Californians Pass Proposition 63 Voters approve a new one percent tax on incomes over $1 million to fund mental health programs and services in the state. OCTOBER Election Day Poll Access Concerns are being raised about on-site challenges against people with mental disabilities who need assistance at polling places. Depression on Campus As depression on college campuses becomes more common, Dr. Richard Kadison gives advice on the campus mental health crisis. Suicide Prevention Act Signed On Thursday, October 21, President Bush signed the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act for suicide prevention. FDA Announces Black Box Warning A warning label will now be placed on all anti-depressants that are prescribed to children. This warning does not evaluate all the risks. SEPTEMBER NAMI Blasts CBS & Dr. Phil NAMI charges CBS Television with gross irresponsibility and potential endangerment of the lives of children with mental illness. Treating Kids with Depression New FDA warnings about the use of anti-depressant medications for children leave parents, caregivers wondering about options. NAMI Celebrates 25 Highlights, photos and more from NAMI's 25th Anniversary Convention, held Sept. 8-12 in Washington, D.C. NAMI & Election 2004 The 2004 Presidential Election is critical to NAMI's policy initiatives. Read about the issues at stake and how you can be involved. NAMI Distinguished Service Award On Sept 9, Ohio Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Lundberg Stratton received NAMI's highest honor for her leadership in criminal justice reform. Women and Depression Running concurrently with our 25th Anniversary Convention this week, NBC's Today Show is airing a series on "Women and Depression." Jane Pauley Reveals Bipolar Disorder In a candid interview on Dateline NBC with Stone Phillips, Jane Pauley reveals her battle with bipolar disorder. Learn more about bipolar. AUGUST Jane Pauley Reveals Bipolar Disorder Airing on Dateline NBC Wednesday, Jane Pauley talks with Stone Phillips about her public and private life and her diagnosis with bipolar disorder. New Study Released The Journal of American Medical Assoc. released a study on Fluoxetine, and CBT treatment in adolescents with depression. JULY Treatment Instead of Detention The Senate Government Affairs Committee holds hearing and issues report on children being held in juvenile detention centers. JUNE NAMI Faces: Ramiro's Story From abuse, addiction and jail to a better life. Read this powerful account of one man's journey along the path to mental illness recovery. MAY A Dangerous Place The WashingtonPost reports on the troubling situation and neglect within assisted living facilities. JANUARY Campaign Launched in West Virginia NAMI-WV and more than thirty partner organizations are kicking off West Virginia Mental/Behavioral Health Awareness Day today. Stop Arkansas Execution Now! Charles Singleton, a man with severe, longstanding schizophrenia, is scheduled for execution on Tuesday, January 6 at 8:00 pm. 2003 DECEMBER U.S. Psychologists to Route Prescriptions through Canadian Drs. Psychologists plan to have Canadian doctors review cases and countersign prescriptions for mental health drugs NOVEMBER NAMI Launches National Campaign Law enforcement, education, business, and health care leaders join forces. State campaigns to go in Florida, Iowa, W. Virginia, Maine, Kentucky, and Mass. NAMI Establishes Campus Affiliates Mental illness on college campuses has become an increasingly prevalent issue, as the pressures of college life hit at a time of increased susceptibility. SEPTEMBER Consumer Leadership Opportunity NAMI Consumer Council calls for dialogue to identify consensus goals that promote recovery. JULY NAMI Releases new TRIAD Report Data shows that people with mental illness in America are paying a high price for failures of the mental health system and continuing public stigma. JUNE NAMI Announces 2003 Media Awards NAMI honors editors, producers, reporters, writers or actors who address mental illness with accuracy, fairness, and compassion. MAY NAMIWALKS ROCKS! Thousands will hit the streets again this weekend to raise funds, awareness for mental illness as NAMIWALKS 2003 rolls on. NAMI Honors 'Hope on the Street' Documentary features profile of Ramiro Guevara, NAMI's new anti-stigma director. APRIL Texans speak out on mental health budget crisis Five-part TV news series in Austin shines light on stigma in the Lone Star state. Terrorism & War: Surgeon General Issues Alert "..there's no greater mental health issue facing us as a nation than the effects of terrorism and war." -- Richard Carmona Physicians Unveil Plan for Saving Mental Health System American Psychiatric Association proposes a far-reaching blueprint for reform. Real Men. Real Depression. New national campaign sends the message: Real men get depression, too. JANUARY New Project to Collect Data for Advocacy Asks: What is Necessary for Recovery? The U.S. Surgeon General and the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health agree that now, more than ever, there are historic possibilities for consumer recovery.

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When you become a member of NAMI, you become part of America's largest grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness. And now you can join online.