What We Believe...

• That mental health is ever changing, not static
• That life's stages bring stresses which cause individual reactions.
• That those who struggle with their feelings should not be labeled sick."
• That people with mental illnesses are entitled to the same acceptance and support as are people with other illnesses.
• That all people should have help in dealing with the feelings and behavior which trouble them without fear of stigma.
• That broad based citizen action is vital to the achievement of our mission.

History...

Clifford Beers (1876-1943) understood the challenge when he launched the citizen's volunteer mental health movement. Beers had been a patient in private and public mental institutions in the early 1900's, where he was subjected to harsh and ineffective treatment. It was out of this nightmare that his dream was born: prevention of the onset of mental illness and increased attention to the humane treatment of people with mental illness.

Today the Mental Health Association is the nation's only citizens' volunteer advocacy organization concerned with all aspects of mental health and mental illness. The Mental Health Association in Lancaster County, founded in 1956, is one of 600 affiliates nationwide working toward accomplishing the mission set by Clifford Beers in 1909.

Mental Health America of Lancaster County Board Members-

Executive Committee- Chris Wise, President, Amy Slody, The Vice President, Doug Stark, Admin. Vice President, Candice Highfield, Secretary, Mike DeStefano, Treasurer

Board of Directors- Rejean Carlson, Sandra Chaby, Glenn Compton, Susan Costley, Jonathan Fox, Sandy Hall,Michele Hartman, Kathleen Kirk, Marie Linares, Mary Ann McSparran, Rae Newhouse,Heather Ritchey, Kim Stoltzfus, Pam Strock, Paul L. West, Tanya West