In response to an issue paper addressing the stigma consumers face within the mental health system (see below), the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has organized a steering committee responsible for designing a statewide anti-stigma campaign. The immediate goal of this committee is to recommend the best steps required to set up the campaign. These steps will be identified by examining current successful anti-stigma efforts and activities throughout Michigan. By doing so, the committee can successfully create an achievable plan for an effective anti-stigma campaign. After these steps are identified and outlined, committee members will be responsible for recommending effective ways to measure the success of the committee and campaign. The campaign will include strong consumer involvement and will place strong accountability on individuals and programs responsible for making change.
The overarching goal is to create a strategy for an effective anti-stigma campaign that focuses on eliminating stigma within the mental health system. Other committee goals include:
- Examine current efforts and activities connected to other parties already engaged in anti-stigma work;
- Learn more about efforts and directions in other states and countries;
- Gauge the extent of efforts the outcomes achieved.
Activities to accomplish these goals will be determined by the Steering Committee, but must be accomplished within two years.
The newly formed steering committee convened its first meeting on June 11, 2009. During this meeting members had an opportunity to introduce themselves share their interests pertaining to stigma. The next few meetings are expected to focus on more clearly defining goals and objectives for the group.
The MRCE will continue to report on the group’s progress and activities. Watch the News, Calendar and the Anti-stigma sections of this website for regular updates about anti-stigma activities and resources to combat mental health stigma.