WASHINGTON (AP) - Michelle Obama says mental health care is not just a policy and budget issue for America, but also a cultural issue.
The first lady says there should be no stigma around mental health, and real change requires a shift in "our attitudes."
Mrs. Obama spoke Wednesday at a mental health summit and the national launch of the campaign to "Change Direction."
The initiative encourages Americans to care for their mental health and learn the signs of emotional distress.
The nonprofit organization Give an Hour, which launched the campaign, has developed a network of about 7,000 mental health professionals to provide services to those in need, including veterans and service members.
"Change Direction" was inspired by a discussion at the White House National Conference on Mental Health in 2013.