What Our New Name Represents

As an organization, Mental Health America has been around for nearly a century. We began our work in 1909 when Clifford W. Beers, a young businessman who struggled with a mental illness and shared his story with the world in his autobiography “A Mind That Found Itself,” created a national citizens’ group to promote mental health and improve conditions for children and adults living with these health problems. It was a revolutionary act and attracted prominent national leaders of the time, including the philosopher William James and the Rockefeller family.

Our new name, Mental Health America, was chosen to communicate how fundamental mental health is to the overall health and well-being of every American. Our new logo is meant to convey Mental Health America as a forward-looking, vibrant movement. The bell image in the logo is a graphic representation of an actual 300 lb. bell, the Mental Health America Bell. The Bell was forged more than 50 years ago with iron chains and shackles that bound people in mental asylums. It serves as a vital reminder of our past and the progress we have made, and a powerful symbol of our vital mission.

We invite  you all to join our movement to help all people live mentally healthier lives

LEGISLATIVE AGENDAS

Make contact with your legislators and make sure your voice is heard on important mental health issues. Here are some links which are of help in contacting your legislators:
Virginia Online Legislature will provide contact information on your legislators, committees, and more.
Legislative Information System provides status information on legislation introduced with bill summaries and the text of the bills.
Please visit our resource page for information about the MHA's Public policy and legislative agenda

MHA GOALS
Create effective campaigns to ensure changes that deliver better mental health for everyone in our community.
Promote the provision of local services that reflect our mission.
Provide education and information about mental health issues.
Promote positive mental health in our communities.
Challenge discrimination and promote inclusion.

We believe that people's direct experience of mental distress and service provision must underpin our work.
Please contact us for a copy of our strategic plan.

THANK YOU SPONSORS
Over 70% of the funding support for the MHA comes from private individuals and anonymous donations by private foundations.
The remaining funding for the MHA came from fundraising projects, which were supported by many local organizations, individuals and businesses.
Donations to the annual fund and membership dues can be sent directly to the Mental Health America Offices. The MHA gratefully accepts cash, checks, MasterCard, Visa, and donations off stock. Our mailing address is listed below. The MHA of C/A is a non-profit 501c3, providing all services free of charge.