2013 Annual Conference: Why Wellness Works

Our 2013 Annual Conference, Why Wellness Works: Breakthroughs and Pathways to Whole Health, will take place June 5 - 8, 2013. The conference will examine where we stand and where we are headed in implementing wellness strategies within our communities. This conference will showcase the mental and physical benefits of living healthy lifestyles for both people living with and without mental health and co-occurring disorders.

Attendees will learn about cutting edge approaches, policy initiatives, programs and tools from across the United States related to whole health and wellness to use in the places we live, learn, and work.

Join us in National Harbor, Maryland at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center – just minutes from downtown Washington, D.C. and Old Town Alexandria – the capital region’s most exciting waterfront entertainment destination.

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Mental Health and Obesity

MHA staff recently conducted a review of the literature related to obesity and mental illness, synthesizing the existing research. The review focused primarily on issues related to adults but also included a brief description of childhood obesity issues. Special concerns related to individuals with serious mental illnesses were a primary focus of the review. There is an especially high prevalence of obesity among those with serious mental illnesses, which is related to excess morbidity and mortality in this population. Side effects from psychiatric medications are a major contributing factor to weight gain and obesity in this population. Treatment interventions were found to fall into one of three categories; behavioral (lifestyle change), surgery, and pharmacological. The review concludes with a discussion of the policy implications of the issue, describing policies that support the prevention, early identification, and treatment of obesity for individuals with serious mental illnesses, including several provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

• Read more about obesity and mental health

Take Action Now!

Latest Alert: Let's Support Our Children: Urge Your Legislators to Cosponsor the Mental Health in Schools Act

Mental Health America's Advocacy Network is a powerful voice for change that is made up of thousands of individuals nationwide who take an active role in protecting America's mental health through legislative advocacy. Take Action!

For updates and progress, please view our legislative and policy resources, action alerts and Advocacy newsletters and issue updates.

Find an Affiliate

With our 240 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. Our Affiliates provide:

• Direct access to a broad range of self-help and professional recovery support for people facing mental health challenges.

• Housing and supported employment for adults with severe mental illnesses or referrals to services.

• Easy access to comprehensive mental health screenings which enable individuals to identify a need for help.
  
  Find your local affiliate...