Welcome to the APA's national public education campaign, where we encourage Americans to 'talk to someone who can help.'

Following months of research and planning, we are embarking on a widespread effort to bridge the information gap between the public and its awareness of and access to psychological services.

A recent study conducted by the APA revealed that 84 percent of Americans believe psychological health plays an important role in overall health, but more than two-thirds don't know how to find help for emotional problems.

At a time when Americans are dealing with increasingly stressful lives --job insecurity, family problems and stress-related illnesses -- we are dedicated to helping ensure public access to a full range of quality health care services. While the vast majority surveyed said insurance coverage and cost of psychological services were important issues, only 35 percent feel that people in the U.S. have adequate access to that care.

The APA campaign will reach consumers through print, radio and TV advertising, media coverage, and the Internet. Practitioners throughout the country will participate in this effort to help Americans identify when they might benefit from seeking psychological help for their problems and how to go about finding an appropriate person to help them.

Only through a national public education campaign will the public understand the value of our profession and begin to make informed decisions about their health care.

As we strive to remove barriers to psychological treatment, we can look forward to establishing a broader understanding of the profession and its role in maintaining good physical and psychological health. Your role in this national campaign is critical to its success. And the success of our campaign is critical to our nation's health.