grassroots movement ending the neglect, discrimination & Criminalization of severe mental illness
For too long, severe mental illnesses—such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder with psychosis—have been neglected, misunderstood, and pushed into systems never designed to provide care. These no-fault brain diseases have remained hidden in the shadows, affecting over 22 million children, youth, and adults and the loved ones who suffer alongside them. We are changing that.
After years of shattering the silence, we’re turning our progress into a 50 State grassroots movement of the people. Join us in 2026 as we power the wave for humane, evidence-based treatment and end the revolving door created by neglect, discrimination, and the criminalization of untreated mental illness.
After years of shattering the silence, we’re turning our progress into a 50 State grassroots movement of the people. Join us in 2026 as we power the wave for humane, evidence-based treatment and end the revolving door created by neglect, discrimination, and the criminalization of untreated mental illness.
our foundation. our fight.
The National Shattering Silence Coalition (NSSC) is a powerful, nonpartisan all-volunteer led alliance of over 800 family members, individuals with severe mental illness, professionals, and caring allies.
A world where every life affected by severe mental illness is saved, supported, and able to thrive with dignity.
NSSC advocates to improve the lives of those affected by severe mental illness--no-fault brain diseases--by dismantling systemic barriers to healthcare and driving change through grassroots education, collaboration, and policy reform.
national vision. local action.
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Our grassroots network is active in 25 States, translating our national vision into local, life-saving policy victories. In 2026, we are driving to expand into all 50 States.
This foundational growth is the engine of our strategy. It ensures our policy vision is locally executed, empowering more than 800 Coalition members to influence legislation and secure life-saving, continuum of care medical treatment in our communities. Get connected with your State Policy Director to ensure reform succeeds in your state. |
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JOIN THE COALITION. Power the waves of change.
stand with us. AMPLIFY YOUR VOICE.Join our nonpartisan coalition and gain the powerful national backing needed to fuel your local advocacy efforts. The more members we have the faster we can shatter the silence.
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ripples of hope to undeniable impact.Since our foundational "Ripples of Hope" report in 2022, we have accelerated our mission, transitioning from localized efforts to generating nationwide systemic reform.
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Get Support. Stay Informed.
support & guidesLean into hope and healing. Learn more about our peer-led groups.
- Caregivers - Bereaved Parents - Success Circle Our Resource Guides offer hope, not heartbreak, and humanity, not handcuffs. View and download guides for SMI caregivers, psychotic illness awareness, and policy advocacy. |
COMMUNITY EVENTSConnect and engage. Join us at upcoming community outreach events and check out past events where boots on the ground made an impact.
Watch recordings of NSSC state-sponsored symposiums on decriminalizing SMI and more. Stay informed about past and upcoming NSSC appearances at peer and caregiver conferences. |
THOUGHT LEADERSHIPDive into insights and diverse perspectives. Listen to recorded Peer & Pro Talks. Stay informed, and register for our next talk.
Read our Beyond Stigma articles in AwareNow Media and watch our Still Here Campaign videos. Upload your story to The Sandy Pruett Project, catch up on our news, listen to podcasts, and subscribe to our blog. |