Despite years of campaigns that sought to create a greater level of understanding for those suffering with mental illness, there are still many stigmas attached to these conditions. In an effort to reverse these trends, communities across the country are celebrating Mental Illness Awareness Week.

For example, organizers in one Southeastern state recently held a rally at state house to help people realize that conditions like obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and dementia can be successfully treated, according to local CBS affiliate THV.

"I want people to embrace the fact that a mental illness is an illness like anything else and that treatment is available and treatment works," Kim Arnold, executive director of the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, told the news source.

She added that it is important to help people realize that mental health problems are diseases because dispelling the stigmas that surround them could help more individuals seek treatment for their conditions.

Similar walks, rallies and fundraisers are being held at locations across the country and are being sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness.