Empowering and guiding Americans to seek out the professional mental health care they deserve.

CHALLENGE

The nation is in the midst of a mental health crisis. The good news is that there’s been progress in dispelling stigma with 72% of Americans recognizing the benefits of treatment. Still, far too few are seeking out mental health care for themselves. That’s in large part because the first step to treatment can be a confusing one.

INSIGHT

When we move care providers and treatment to the front of the mental health and self-help conversation, we can guide people to own and take the first step on their mental health journey in a way that feels clear, safe, and empowering. 

IDEA

The American Psychiatric Association Foundation is evolving our message from simply affirming that “mental health care works” to a direct and actionable imperative — You Make the Call.  
 
By creating a surround sound campaign for both English and Spanish speakers, we’re disrupting a culture of passive self-help and providing clear and diverse resources, support, and ultimately pathways to finding the mental health treatment that Americans so deserve.  

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

At the heart of this campaign is our website, MentalHealthCareWorks.org, where visitors can find resources, support, mental health information and personal stories that dig into specific mental health conditions.

Personal Stories

By featuring even more diverse personas working through a variety of common mental health conditions, we’re demonstrating that individual mental health care journeys can begin in different ways. Beyond modeling what “making the call” can look like, we follow up by providing our audience with condition-specific resources and support on the website. 

Robert’s Story

English

Robert thought drinking was just part of his social life, until he started neglecting his family.

He made the call to a helpline to find a local alcohol addiction treatment center. With his doctor’s help, Robert’s finding better ways to cope.

Español

Sarah’s Story

English

When obsessive thoughts and endless rituals took over, Sarah knew she needed help.

She made the call and started seeing a therapist who diagnosed her with OCD. Now that she understands her condition, she’s better able to manage her symptoms.

Español

Surround Sound Assets

58M+

Paid impressions since launch in April 2024


THE RESULTS

114M

Impressions over 3 months

54K

Website visits since launch in April 2024