About Mental Health America of Indiana

Mental Health America of Indiana is Indiana’s leading mental health and substance use advocacy organization. We are dedicated to providing overall mental wellness and recovery for all Hoosiers.

Mission & Vision

Mental Health America of Indiana’s (MHAI’s) mission is to work for Indiana’s mental health and victory over mental illness.

Our work has resulted in positive change. MHAI provides programs, education, and training to the professional field and the general public on behavioral health. Our treatment services have expanded equitable access to services for individuals seeking care. MHAI hopes to continue to reduce conditions that impede the attainment of mental wellness and recovery for all Hoosiers. In addition, our organization develops partnerships with stakeholders in Indiana to promote behavioral health advocacy and public policy.

History of Mental Health America

Mental Health America traces its origins back to the early 20th century when Clifford W. Beers, who had experienced mental illness himself, decided to expose the maltreatment and abuse faced by people with mental illnesses. Beers’ personal struggle with bipolar disorder and his experiences in public and private hospitals motivated him to take action. He published his autobiography, “A Mind That Found Itself,” in 1908, which raised awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses. In 1909, Clifford W. Beers, along with philosopher William James and psychiatrist Adolf Meyer, founded the National Committee for Mental Hygiene. This organization later evolved into the National Mental Health Association and is known today as Mental Health America.


The Mental Health Bell

Our Mental Health Bell serves as a powerful reminder that the invisible chains of misunderstanding and discrimination continue to bind people with mental heath conditions.


Get to Know Our Team

Board of Directors

Mental Health America of Indiana is overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of mental health and business professionals, people with lived experience, and advocates whom represent our mission. Meeting quarterly, the Board directs the strategic objectives and policy of the organization.  The role of the Board of Directors is to provide subject matter expertise, input, and collaboration to the organization. Focusing on mission, programs, and policy, this provides MHAI with statewide stakeholders that possess specific expertise and influence in the subject matter to the organization.


Our Team

The Mental Health America of Indiana staff philosophy is to combine lived experience with professional integrity. This helps our organization understand how individuals living with mental health conditions can be positively impacted through our work. To learn more about each team member and their work experience, click below!


What We Do