Recent CT Forum featuring Dr. Schwartz to air on CPTV on April 8th, 14th & 20th

March 21, 2014 By Hartford HealthCare

Recent CT Forum featuring Dr. Schwartz to air on CPTV on April 8th, 14th & 20th
Dr. Harold I. Schwartz, Psychiatrist-in-Chief and Vice President for Behavioral Health at Hartford Hospital/Institute of Living, was a panelist at the Connecticut Forum at The Bushnell on March 7, 2014. The topic was “An Honest Look at Mental Illness,” and the Forum was hosted by Hartford HealthCare.


This unscripted evening of unforgettable conversation supported HHC’s efforts to further the national dialogue on mental health and to help “Stop the Stigma” that surrounds mental illness. About one in four American adults suffers from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. There are dozens of such disorders, from depression and bipolar disorder to schizophrenia and panic attacks. “By helping combat the stigma associated with mental illness, we can help increase the number of people who seek treatment,” said Dr. Schwartz. HHC’s Behavioral Health Network – Natchaug Hospital, Rushford, The Institute of Living and programs at The Hospital of Central Connecticut, MidState and Backus – offers comprehensive care and programs for people living with mental illness. Most of the time, proper treatment – such as the options and support provided by the Behavioral Health Network – enables people with mental illness to lead fulfilling and productive lives. But there persists a stigma about mental illness in our society, and patients often feel shame and isolation. “Shame and discrimination can add to the suffering of those living with mental illness. Stigma can prevent people from seeking treatment and getting better,” said Dr. Stephen Larcen, Senior Vice President for Behavioral Health. That’s why HHC launched a public campaign to “Stop the Stigma.” Our goal is to have 10,000 people take the pledge. To date, more than 7,000 people have done so. The pledge is online at www.StopTheStigmaCT.org. The Connecticut Forum presentation will be broadcast on CPTV on April 8th at 8PM, April 14th at 10PM, and April 20th at 10AM.