According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older — about one in four adults — suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. I wonder how many of thse Americans could be restored to mental health if they had one person to listen and understand?

Maybe it’s time to turn of the TV, the computer, the cell phone (gasp!) and give someone we know who is “troubled” our undivided attention, our empathy, our compassion. Yes it will be uncomfortable. Of course you will feel inadequate and helpless. But it’s not about you. It’s about being there for people wrestling with mental illness.

We have the power to listen people back into existence. Lets use it!