Because religion and spirituality often play a vital role in healing, people experiencing mental health concerns often turn first to a faith leader. From a public-health perspective, faith community leaders are gatekeepers or “first responders” when individuals and families face mental health or substance use problems. In that role they can help dispel misunderstandings, reduce stigma associated with mental illness and treatment, and facilitate access to treatment for those in need. Click here for a free downloadable PDF from the American Psychiatric Association Foundation for Mental Health: A Guide for Faith Leaders.