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Our History

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Mental Health America (MHA) is the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the mental health of our citizens.

Founded in 1909 as a movement to reform the nation’s mental healthcare system through advocacy, education, research, and service, MHA has grown to encompass 233 affiliates across the US. Together, we work to improve the mental health of all Americans—especially the 54 million individuals with mental disorders.

MHA’s statewide affiliate, Mental Health America in South Carolina (MHASC) was chartered in 1954, and Mental Health America of Greenville County (MHAGC)—the local chapter of MHASC—was founded a year later. Since our founding, MHAGC has focused on the mental health needs of Greenville County residents through various benefit and socialization programs. As our local organization has grown, so has the scope of our services.

Today, MHAGC is the only broad-based organization in Greenville County dedicated to addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. We have particular expertise regarding suicide prevention, intervention, and after-care in our Greenville community through our Crisis Intervention Services (CIS) program, including our Survivors of Suicide support group and closed grief groups. We operate the upstate 988 Suicide and Crisis Call Center in Greenville.

In 2020, the US Congress strengthened and expanded the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by designating a new 988 dialing code that provides a direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing emotional or mental health-related distress. The 988 program links those in crisis to community-based providers who can offer a full range of care services, and provides an essential link in a national strategy to meet the urgent mental health needs of Americans.

Our work has resulted in positive change. We have educated millions about mental illnesses and reduced barriers to treatment and services. As a result, many Americans with mental disorders—including the citizens of Greenville County—have sought care and now enjoy fulfilling, productive lives in their communities.

Timeline

1909

Mental Health America (MHA) founded.

1954

Mental Health America in South Carolina (MHASC) chartered.

1955

Mental Health America of Greenville County (MHAGC)

1990

Began operating CRISISline as part of the CIS program, providing 24/7 mental health service.

1990

Began operating the Survivors of Suicide support group as part of the CIS program.

1995

Founded TEENline, a peer-based program for teenagers in crisis.

2001

Founded TEENline chat to help online teens.

2013

Founded TEENline text to help teens on their phones.

2020

Began operating the 988 Lifeline as part of an expansion of the federal Suicide Emergency Call Number.