My name is Fernando

“I remember thinking I don’t know how but I know I’m gonna get better and even though I was still suffering a lot there was like a little ray of hope.”

My name is Rachel

"I started to realize that I was strong and I was smart and I was capable. The moment you start to believe that about yourself, other people see it too."

Rachel’s Story

My name is Steve

“It’s not a DIY project, mental health and behavioral health. You do need outside help a lot of times.”

Steve's Story

My name is Autumn

"People don’t understand, it’s not a character flaw, it’s not a choice. I am a human being with goals, dreams, thoughts, aspirations."

Autumn's Story

My Name is Jordan

“It was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do in my life … I don’t know where I would be without the people I met, without the help I got.”

Jordan's Story

My name is Tajuanna

“If you have mental health issues it will be okay. You will be okay.”

Tajuanna’s Story

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Understand Stigma

Stigma is a major barrier to people struggling with mental health and substance use feeling included in their community and getting the help they need.

Upcoming WISE and Partner Events

Jul 06, 2023

Aug 03, 2023

Aug 10, 2023

Aug 15, 2023

Aug 22 & 24, 2023

Sep 07, 2023

End Stigma Together: The WISE Approach

Stigma 101 Course

Stigma is a major barrier to people getting the help they need. Take time to learn what it is and how to overcome it.

Up to Me

The Up to Me curriculum helps people make choices about if, when, and how they share their mental health and substance use struggles.

Safe Person 7 Promises

Learn how to respond in a supportive, non-judgmental way when people with mental health and other challenges are ready to share.

Compassion Resilience Toolkits

Facilitator resources for professionals and caregivers to prevent compassion fatigue.

Articles From WISE Experts

May 26, 2023

Dispelling the Stigma Surrounding Psychotherapy

Apr 24, 2023

The Role of Peer Support for Persons with Substance Use and Mental Health Challenges

Feb 28, 2023

Substance Use Stigma: The Impact on Adolescent Substance Use

Dr. Gabrielle Jones

~World Health Organization

“Stigma is a major cause of discrimination and exclusion and it contributes to the abuse of human rights.”

~SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)

“Substance use disorder is among the most stigmatized conditions in the US and around the world. People do not want to work with, be related to, or even see people with a substance use disorder in public..”

~Center for Addiction and Mental Health

“Health care providers, like the general public, are not immune to stigmatizing attitudes and practices. This can drive people away from seeking help for their mental health, physical health, or substance use issues.”