Spotlighting Those Who Make a Difference for Mental Health

Join with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to recognize individuals in the entertainment industry and mental health consumers who give a voice to people with mental health problems. The Voice Awards honor writers and producers who incorporate dignified, respectful, and accurate portrayals of people with mental illnesses into film and television productions. The awards also recognize consumer leaders who inspire us with their contributions toward promoting the social inclusion and recovery of people with mental health problems.

If you know of a film or television production that will have been released between October 1, 2007, and March 15, 2009, and depicts people with mental health problems in a dignified, respectful, and accurate way, please nominate it for a 2009 Voice Award.

Similarly, if you know of mental health consumers who have led efforts to promote social inclusion, demonstrated that recovery is real and possible, and made a positive impact on their workplaces, communities, and/or schools, please nominate them for a 2009 Consumer Leadership Voice Award. Additional consideration will be given to nominees who have made a positive impact within special populations such as culturally diverse groups, young adults ages 18 to 25, and those who have worked to prevent suicide.

Nominations are open to anyone, are free, and there is no limit to the number an individual can submit.

Entertainment industry nominations will remain open until March 15, 2009.
Mental health consumer nominations will remain open until May 15, 2009.

The Voice Awards will be presented at a gala ceremony in Los Angeles on October 14, 2009. Please visit the Voice Awards Web site at www.voiceawards.samhsa.gov for updates on this exciting event.