Breaking The Silence

New! Teacher's Section

JUST ONE LESSON ON MENTAL ILLNESS could make all the difference in the lives of young people whose lives have been thrown tragically off course by no fault brain disorders such as:

Major Depression
Bipolar Disorder
Schizophrenia
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Panic Disorder

Nearly two-thirds of all people with diagnosable mental disorders do not seek treatment.
--Surgeon General's Report on _Mental Illness

INNOVATIVE LESSONS put a human face on mental illness and confront the myths that reinforce the silence.

STUDENTS LEARN

• It is biology, not a character flaw, that causes _mental illness.
• Mental illness has never been more treatable
• The warning signs of mental illness
• How to overcome the stigma that surrounds _mental illness

EASY TO USE

• For upper elementary, middle school, high _school
• Fully scripted lessons and suggested _activities
• Eye catching posters and board game
• Plans can be used for one day or extended for _several days
• No prior knowledge of the subject required

Mental illness is one of the leading causes of disability in this country. These lessons which teach the warning signs of mental illness, should be part of every child's education.
--James L. Stone, M.S.W., Commissioner, NYS Office of Mental Health

Family’s battle with mental illness

Eli and Lorraine Kaplan talk about their son’s diagnosis of schizophrenia and why they want to help others break their silence. Video: NBC’s Today Show 2/7/08