fighting the tragedy of serious MENTAL ILLNESS cutting lives short and causing immense suffering for loved ones

The National Shattering Silence Coalition (NSSC) is a powerful, nonpartisan alliance of over 740 family members, individuals with serious brain disorders (SBDs) -- commonly known as serious mental illness (SMI) -- professionals, and caring allies.

We're fighting for a world where more than 22 million Americans living with serious brain disorders (SBDs), their families, and caregivers are empowered by immediate, compassionate, and equitable treatment and support.

Our shared mission is to drive fundamental change by ensuring the health, brain illness, and criminal justice systems fully count SBD individuals and their families in all policy reforms, from local to federal levels. We are committed to ensuring our most vulnerable citizens get the lifesaving treatment they need and deserve.

Since October 2017, we have been the voice for the 14.2 million adults (1 in 20) and 8 million children (1 in 10) who need us. While we maintain a unifying national vision, we are also driving vital change at the state level—where reform is most essential—through our 21 State Policy Directors in key battleground states.

driving policy and awareness

  • GRASSROOTS REFORM: We advocate for change in federal and state laws to improve the quality of life and the way those with SMI/SBDs are treated in our nation's social services, healthcare, and criminal justice system.
  • DESTIGMATIZE & DECRIMINALIZE: We advocate for a shift in understanding that certain criminal behaviors are symptoms of an illness, not criminal intent. We drive policy reform to redirect individuals from the criminal justice system to compassionate, community-based care, improving outcomes for those with serious mental illness who commit offenses.
  • PUBLIC EDUCATION: We educate the public through our PRO Talks (featuring mental health experts) and PEER Talks (featuring individuals with lived experience), and State Symposiums. In collaboration with AwareNow Media, our Beyond Stigma Campaign powerfully raises awareness about the current system's failures and its devastating impact on families. 

providing essential resources

  • ​HUMANITY, NOT HANDCUFFS: Our Guide to Psychosis and Psychotic Illnesses is an evidence-based communication resource used to educate the public, policymakers, and the criminal justice system.
  • HOPE, NOT HEARTBREAK: Our Guide for SMI Caregivers in Crisis empowers caregivers and families by providing practical, experience-based information and clear pathways to help them navigate the complicated maze of our 'care' systems.
  • COMFORT & COMMUNITY: Our dedicated support groups for bereaved parents and caregivers offer hope and healing.

​We can't win this fight alone. We need your help.

We need your support to build a more just and compassionate world for our most vulnerable Americans.

Join us and donate today. Let's build this world together.

stand with us. elevate your voice. take action now.​

When you join our nonpartisan coalition, you gain the powerful national backing needed to fuel your local advocacy efforts. You can also serve on a committee to educate members and access our exclusive NSSC Member Resource Guide. This quarterly publication is your source for affiliated organizations, upcoming events, and the best ways to stay connected.

The more members we have, the louder our voices become, and the faster we can shatter the silence around Serious Brain Disorders (SBD)/Serious Mental Illness (SMI).

Don't wait! It's quick and easy to sign up. Follow the link for a short membership form, which will also direct you to submit your voluntary yearly dues. We look forward to welcoming you!