(09/21/06) WOODBURY - Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi announced a plan Thursday to change the negative stigma of mental illness.

Nassau will provide nearly $100,000 for the campaign that attempts to change the perception and treatment of people with mental illness. People suffering from mental illness say they often experience discrimination from their peers and it only compounds their troubles. Nassau health officials say they want individuals to feel comfortable coming forward to receive treatment, which they say many do not do because of the attached stigma.

One in five people live with some form of mental illness, according to the surgeon general. If you or someone you know is in need, call the hotline 516-504-HELP (4357) to speak with a health professional.