Online mental health information network created

Source: Healthcare Digital

Date :6/28/2007 9:07:40 AM

New site will offer correct mental health information for consumers.

Mental Health America, a non-profit mental health organization, and Psych Central recently announced that the two organizations are partnering to create an online mental health social and information network. Planned to launch later this year, the partnership will create a network to provide consumers with credible, trustworthy and high-quality mental health information and community on the Internet, says Mental Health America and Psych Central.

"Wiith an increasing number of people turning to online resources for mental health information, there needs to be reliable content supported by established organizations," says David L. Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. "This partnership will bring quality content to a growing network of people promoting mental wellness and result in additional clarity for those who seek trusted mental health information online," said Shern.

The partnership will feature content from both organizations, including daily news articles, research briefs, book reviews, interviews with leading experts, online community forums, and more. The portal will also enable consumers to personalize content based on their needs.

“We’re extremely proud to be able to partner with Mental Health America for this effort,” says Dr. John M. Grohol, Psy.D., founder and publisher of Psych Central. “For more than 12 years, Psych Central has been helping to break down the stigma related to mental health issues through its online efforts. This partnership is the next step in support of that cause. Together, we’ll integrate the best mental health information and help grow a community while providing new ways for people to connect with each other.”

According to the Pew Internet & American Life Project, more than 25 percent of Internet users search for mental health information online. With this increased interest and the growing number of choices for consumers to receive mental health information, it’s never been so important that sites maintain strong ethical standards and adhere to stringent privacy policies, says Mental Health America and Psych Central.