Transitions received a grant to participate in the Department of Mental Health’s Say It Out Loud campaign.  The campaign’s purpose is to raise awareness of the importance of mental health in over-all wellness. The goals of the Say It Out Loud campaign are to reduce the stigma of mental illness, to build a stronger base of support for people with mental health challenges, to promote the social, emotional and mental health of children and encourage parents to seek mental health supports for their children, when needed. The goal of the campaign is that people in our state will become more comfortable with and/or initiate discussions on the subject of mental health and seek help for mental health problems. Read below to see how "saying it out loud" has helped people deal with their mental health challenges.

"Through a church program, Niel helped me see that mental illness doesn't define me.  It's only one part of my overall health and well-being.  Now, I share my recovery story and encourage others to say it out loud."

"Being a parent means being in touch with our kids.  Not just physical health, but their social and emotional development, too.  We trust our instincts and ask for advice and help.  We just say it out loud."

"I know Veterans who can't get past their experiences because they keep everything inside.  But I've discovered that sharing my story helps younger guys like Gil to open up.  Now, we help other Vets say it out loud."