One in five Americans experience mental illness each year and it is estimated that, in about 50% of the cases, symptoms start by age 14. 

Stigmatization has historically played a large role in people not getting help for their mental illness because of societal disapproval and the shame placed on people living with a mental illness.  Unfortunately, negative attitudes and beliefs toward people who have a mental health condition are common. 

Erase the Stigma Now (ETSN) is a nonprofit project in Butte County, founded by local residents to fight the stigmatization of mental illness.  We have steadily grown since 2017, when this vision was born and are now a part of North Valley Community Foundation.

Our growth is thanks to the helping hands of many living in this amazing community and to the courage of our local panelists, who share their experiences in living with a mental health diagnosis, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD.