Our mission is to make films that help people understand mental health, and the problems faced by a majority of us at some point in our life, and by a smaller number of us, but still millions, during most or all of our life. These problems can range from mild to severe, and their effects can be minimal if properly handled, or devastating if not.

Awareness of our own mental health, and that of those around us, is important in early recognition and treatment of problems. Denial is not likely to lead to a cure.

Diminished mental health can result from completely physical causes, such as a tumor, a stroke, or changes in body hormones or chemistry connected with a disease or even life cycle changes such as menopause.

Devoting resources to dealing with these problems early is much more economical and effective than trying to deal with the problems, and their effects on the lives of the afflicted and those close to them, after a problem has grown steadily worse.

Many of us get through mental health problems at some point in life, with the strong support of family and friends, hardly admitting to ourselves or others that we have a problem. Others are not so fortunate, and some end up living on the street, encountering the law enforcement system, and buried in potter’s field.

A very active and successful businessman we know, who was always in the best of mental and physical health, suddenly and unexpectedly suffered a stroke. In a moment, his mental as well as physical abilities were severely impaired. Fortunately his two young, adult sons were able to see to his business and personal affairs in a way which preserved his savings and assured his physical and mental comfort.

Another successful businessman we know slowly began to lose his sharp mental abilities as he grew older, and while he insisted on controlling his investments and living conditions, gradually fell under those who helped him spend his money at a great rate, decimating his savings. Some degree of dementia is not at all uncommon as we age, and is often effectively handled by family, friends, and doctors. Without proper handling, and allowances and understanding for the aging person, the results can be very bad.  

At any time in life, abuse of alcohol, gambling, drugs, sex addiction or other risky behaviors can become major problems. Such behaviors can grow worse gradually, or they can be triggered by particular events such as divorce or job loss.

Depression can be mild or severely debilitating, and is one the most common challenges to mental health, which can be recognized and treated.

Schizophrenia is the other most common severe mental illness, and often a difficult, life long challenge.

The Fiduciary Foundation was established to help others help themselves, and we support the Mental Health Film Project because of Ken Rosenberg’s demonstrated track record of making films that do just that, and continue to contribute greatly to the teaching and understanding of mental health. If everyone gets involved, we can really change the face of mental illness in America, from a bewildered family to an empowered one, from a homeless and helpless victim on the streets to someone who lives with hope and dignity.