Message from Tommy G. Thompson

Secretary of Health and Human Services

As a nation, we have only begun to come to terms with the reality and impact of mental illnesses on the health and well being of the American people. This groundbreaking publication makes clear that the tragic and devastating effects of mental illnesses touch people of all ages, colors, and cultures. And though Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General informed us that there are effective treatments available for most disorders, Americans do not share equally in the best that science has to offer. Through the process of conducting his comprehensive scientific review for this Supplement, and with recognition that mental illnesses are real, disabling conditions affecting all populations regardless of race or ethnicity, the Surgeon General has determined that disparities in mental health services exist for racial and ethnic minorities, and thus, mental illnesses exact a greater toll on their overall health and productivity.

Diversity is inherent to the American way of life, and so is equal opportunity. Ensuring that all Americans have equal access to high quality health care, including mental health care, is a primary goal of the Department of Health and Human Services. By identifying the many barriers to quality care faced by racial and ethnic minorities, this Supplement provides an important road map for Federal, State, and local leaders to follow in eliminating disparities in the availability, accessibility, and utilization of mental health services.

An exemplary feature of this Supplement is its consideration of the relevance of history and culture to our understanding of mental health, mental illness, and disparities in services. In particular, the national prevention agenda can be informed by understanding how the strengths of different groups' cultural and historical experiences might be drawn upon to help prevent the emergence of mental health problems or reduce the effects of mental illness when it strikes. This Supplement takes a promising first step in this direction.

One of the profound responsibilities of any government is to provide for its most vulnerable citizens. It is now incumbent upon the public health community to set in motion a plan for eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in mental health. To achieve this goal, we must first better understand the roles of culture, race, and ethnicity, and overcome obstacles that would keep anyone with mental health problems from seeking or receiving effective treatment. We must also endeavor to reduce variability in diagnostic and treatment procedures by encouraging the consistent use of evidence-based, state-of-the-art medications and psychotherapies throughout the mental health system. At the same time, research must continue to aid clinicians in understanding how to appropriately tailor interventions to the needs of the individual based on factors such as age, gender, race, culture, or ethnicity.

To ensure that the messages outlined by the Surgeon General in this document reach the American people, the Department of Health and Human Services encourages its State and local partners to engage communities and listen to their needs. We must understand how local leaders and communities, including schools, families, and faith organizations, can become vital allies in the battle against disparities. Together, we can develop a shared vision of equal access to effective mental health services, identify the opportunities and incentives for collaborative problem solving, and then seize them. From a commitment to health and mental health for all Americans, communities will benefit. States will benefit. The Nation will benefit.

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