The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, FableVision Studios, Express Yourself, and Walker, Inc. worked together to develop a public education campaign to raise mental health awareness and de-stigmatize mental health conditions experienced by children and youth. The goal of the campaign is to alleviate fear, stigma, and establish a shared vocabulary for kids, their parents, and other adults, such as educators. The effort also underscores the power of friendship, support, and recovery from mental illness. The campaign includes a short animated film of about “Isaac’s Story,” a picture book and collateral materials such as posters, teacher guides, a student coloring book/work sheet and other campaign materials.
- The Department of Mental Health, as the State Mental Health Authority, assures and provides access to services and supports to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages; enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities. www.mass.gov/dmh
- Walker provides intensive services for children and youth facing complex emotional, behavioral, and learning challenges. Walker’s multidisciplinary programs extend specialized therapeutic environments beyond their classrooms and residential treatment programs into family homes, public schools and community settings. https://www.walkercares.org/
- Express Yourself immerses young people in the arts, where they find a powerful tool for self-expression, uncover inner strength, and deepen connection with others. http://www.exyo.org/
- FableVision Studios is dedicated to helping all learners reach their full potential and to telling “stories that matter, stories that move.” FableVision produces award-winning websites, games, activities, animated films, and mobile apps. http://www.fablevisionstudios.com/
Different Kinds of Hurt: Isaac’s Story Parent/Educator Guide, Film, and Book produced by FableVision Studios in partnership with The Mass Department of Mental Health, Walker, Inc. and Express Yourself. www.mass.gov/isaacs-story