Massachusetts NAMI chapter survey on attitudes toward mental illness

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http://www.namimass.org/wp-content/uploads/NAMI-Mass-Mental-Health-Survey-release-FINAL-2.docx

• Ninety-four percent say mental illness is a serious issue in the United States;
• Ninety-five percent say society has an obligation to care for and provide services to people with mental illness;
• Seventy-two percent say their view of mental illness has changed over the years, with 97 percent becoming more sympathetic;
• One in five say they have – or have had – a mental illness;
• Only 27 percent said Massachusetts government is doing a good job helping people with mental illness;
• Ninety-eight percent say as long as people with mental illness are treated effectively, they can lead normal and productive lives;
• Ninety percent strongly believe people with mental illness face significant prejudice.

“The survey reveals a public that may be further along when it comes to thoughtful public policy than many may believe,” according to John Marttila, president of Marttila Strategies, who oversaw the survey’s design. “It shows that, by and large, voters get that mental illness is a brain disorder which requires treatment. They believe that our society has an obligation to care for and provide services for people with mental illness, including facilities, spending and adoption of a more tolerant attitude.”