Mental Health America to Honor
Hawaii Affiliate with National Award

"Healing the Trauma of War" Program to be Recognzied at

Annual Conference on June 12 in Washington, D.C.

Contact: Steve Vetzner, (703) 797-2588 or svetzner@mentalhealthamerica.net

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (June 9, 2010)-A program of Mental Health America of Hawaii (MHA Hawaii) will be honored with a national award by Mental Health America at its Annual Conference on June 12 in Washington, D.C.

MHA Hawaii's "Healing the Trauma of War" project will be presented the Innovation During Challenging Economic Times award. Made possible through the Mary Jane Ward Memorial Fund, the award recognizes the innovation and creativity of Mental Health Affiliates in the face of funding challenges and the fallout of economically difficult times for the nation and their communities. MHA Hawaii is an affiliate of Mental Health America.

"MHA Hawaii has created a unique and invaluable program that is responding to the pressing needs of military personnel and their families," said David Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. "We are proud to recognize this effort that is making a difference in people's lives.

Healing the Trauma of War has taken a number of important steps to reach the large civilian reservist community and their families in Hawaii who are often "hidden" within their own neighborhoods. Many face issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental health conditions. The stress of the economic downturn and reduced state and federal funding for social services has put many of them on the brink of hopelessness.

The program has worked to increase access to care and expand outreach programs to military children. An initiative to establish a Veterans Court to divert soldiers from jail to treatment was recognized in a resolution passed by the state legislature in April. The state judiciary is now working to implement it.

Mental Health America is the country's leading nonprofit dedicated to helping ALL people live mentally healthier lives.  With a century of service and our more than 320 affiliates nationwide, we represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation - everyday and in times of crisis.

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