The National Institute of Mental Health has tapped the true stories of six men in a campaign to reduce the stigma of men seeking help for depression.
Through television, radio and print public service announcements, brochures and a Web site, the "Real men. Real depression." campaign describes depression in men, encourages depressed men to seek help, explains treatment options and encourages families and friends to provide support.
Campaign materials--available at http://menanddepression.nimh.nih.gov or by calling toll-free (866) 227-6464--feature science-based information about depression that's peppered with the men's experiences. The men featured in the campaign materials are a diverse group, including a New York City firefighter, a lawyer and a national diving champion.
--D. SMITH