Kristy Worthen raised the Mental Health Flag for the first time at the Arkansas State Capitol on May 10, 2002. Kristy has bipolar disorder but with a correct diagnosis and medication that is right for her, she is leading a successful life and realizing her dream of a career as an artist. After hearing her story, Arkansas' Lieutenant Governor, Win Rockefeller took her flag to the National Lieutenant Governor’s Association and asked each Lieutenant Governor to fly the flag at each state capitol to bring about more awareness of mental health. The National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA) has chosen the Mental Health Flag as their project to help focus national attention on mental health needs for all people. This was the beginning of the Mental Health Flag's tour across the United States.

Kristy, along with her mother, Mary Worthen, author of "Journey Not Chosen... Destination Not Known, Living with Bipolar Disorder," have started a journey with a mission of educating legislators and the public about mental health issues of today. They plan to fly the flag in each state and territory across the United States.

Arkansas Lt. Gov. Rockefeller wrote the foreword for Mary's second edition of "Journey Not Chosen." Click here to view more.

Kristy raises flag with help of First Lady of Arkansas, Janet Huckabee

First Flag Raising - May 2002