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This Web site is a component of the SAMHSA Health Information Network.

The ADS Center

The ADS Center will assist individuals and public and private organizations in the design, implementation, and operation of programs and campaigns to reduce discrimination and stigma associated with mental illnesses. The ultimate goal of the ADS Center is to enhance mental health consumer independence and community participation. The toll-free number is 1-800-540-0320, and it is open Monday-Friday (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST) with bilingual (English/Spanish) staff.

How to Contact Us:

• By Phone:
  The ADS Center's toll-free number is 1-800-540-0320. We are open Monday-Friday (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) with bilingual (English/Spanish) staff.
  
  
• On the Web:
  http://www.stopstigma.samhsa.gov/index.html
  
  
• By Mail:
  ADS Center
  11420 Rockville Pike
  Rockville, MD 20852
  
  
• By E-mail:
  stopstigma@samhsa.hhs.gov

Some of the responsibilities of the ADS Center will be to: (1) provide specific Web site resources and information about effective approaches for people or organizations interested in combating discrimination and stigma; (2) offer information about available publications, events, and issues of relevance regarding discrimination and stigma; and (3) develop a semi-annual newsletter with new and/or innovative resources and campaigns.

The Surgeon General's Report on Mental Health identified stigma as the central obstacle to Americans' receiving quality mental health care. This new effort will also assist the President's New Freedom Initiative by reducing barriers that impede the ability of people with psychiatric disabilities to live, work, and participate in their communities. The ADS Center is the next step in following a number of CMHS activities aimed at eradicating discrimination and stigma.

In March 2001, CMHS sponsored the first National Symposium to Address Discrimination and Stigma, bringing over 400 experts together to review research findings and best practices in this area. CMHS also released Challenging Stereotypes: An Action Guide, which provided a step-by-step approach on how to respond to stigma in the media and elsewhere, including sample letters, resource listings, and strategies. An Anti-Stigma Kit consisting of a poster and other material is also available. The materials are available from SAMHSA's National Mental Health Information Center at l-800-789-2647; Web site: http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov.