Rewriting the Narrative on Men's Mental Health: A Conversation with Patrick J. Kennedy & Shawn Lesser

​Mental Health Day, presented by THE REAL Mental Health Foundation & Convergence Partners.

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Former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy is co-author of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and co-founder of The Kennedy Forum, a nonprofit that helps ensure mental health as essential health. Kennedy co-authored the New York Times Bestseller, “A Common Struggle” and “Profiles in Mental Health Courage,” which details compelling experiences of people navigating mental health conditions and substance use disorders (MH/SUDs). Kennedy led the 2023 launch of Alignment for Progress, a national movement to achieve a bold vision: By 2033, 90% of the population is screened for MH/SUD, 90% of those who need it receive evidence-based treatment, and 90% of individuals treated manage symptoms and achieve recovery.

Shawn Lesser, Founder of The REAL shares about his personal journey. The pioneer in impact investing experienced a mental health crisis in 2023, finding himself in the psych ward. He's made an incredible recovery & has turned pain into purpose founding The REAL Mental Health Foundation, The REAL Summits & The REAL Fund of Funds. The Foundation is focused on supporting men's mental health globally through community & peer support models & The Summits & Fund of Funds is dedicated to expanding the global mental health ecosystem by driving more private sector investment towards mental health innovation.