Changing the Conversation on Mental Illness with Patrick J. Kennedy

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and this episode is a reminder that we can’t just be aware of the problem – we need to take action. Host Paula Felps is joined by mental health advocate Patrick J. Kennedy, whose new book, Profiles in Mental Health Courage, shares the dramatic stories of people who are living with mental illness. Because of his own challenges with mental illness and addiction, the former congressman is on a mission to change how we view mental illness in this country and, importantly, change the way we treat it. His bold plan for the future of mental health includes bipartisan action to identify, treat, and manage conditions earlier to enrich the lives of all those affected. In this episode, you’ll learn: What inspired Patrick to share his own story and how it helped him change the narrative around mental illness and addiction. Why talking about our mental health challenges helps us heal — and helps others. How Patrick would like to see the approach to mental illness and addiction treatment change — and what he’s doing about it.