Campaign focuses on mental health, suicide

LANSING (AP) — The state of Michigan and a foundation are working together on a campaign to raise awareness of mental illness and combat suicide.

The Opening Minds Ending Stigma campaign began over the weekend with the airing of a 30-minute documentary in the Detroit and Grand Rapids TV markets.

The documentary can be seen for free at www.endingstigma.org. Internet and social media campaigns, including public service announcements, also are planned.

The program explores factors that may increase risks, identifies warning signs and stresses the importance of early intervention.

Lt. Gov. Brian Calley says the stigma associated with mental health issues too often prevents people from seeking the help they need.

The campaign is sponsored by the Ethel and James Flinn Foundation in Detroit and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.