Mental Illness Awareness Week-10/2-10/8

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Registered: 09-01-2004
Mental Illness Awareness Week-10/2-10/8
Wed, 09-28-2005 - 9:58am

Mental Illness
Awareness Week


October 2 – 8, 2005, is Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), an annual, national observance that was created by a Presidential proclamation in 1990 to focus attention on the high incidence of mental illness in America.


Over the past 16 years, MIAW has become a tradition in the NAMI grassroots. It presents an opportunity for the NAMI family to work together in communities across the country in a variety of outreach, educational, and advocacy efforts.

During MIAW, millions of Americans will honor the challenges faced by those living with mental illnesses and celebrate the recoveries their loved ones have achieved. This year’s theme, "Leveling the Playing Field," reflects the hope and real possibility of reclaimed lives for people with mental illnesses in communities across the country.


Recovery is a real possibility, largely due to improved science, better community support, and reduced stigma. But barriers remain that often delay or negatively influence recovery. Services are at risk; there is minimal insurance available for those who work; and stigma, although less today than when MIAW was founded, is still prevalent.