Financial stress is a national epidemic. Nearly 75 percent of Americans are experiencing financial stress, and it is affecting our nation's health and happiness.

During Super Bowl 50, SunTrust Banks, Inc. will put its purpose of Lighting the Way to Financial Well-Being into action with the launch of its first national Super Bowl ad to help Americans talk openly about money and take steps toward financial confidence.

"We believe that financial stress is a significant social concern, one that merits national attention," said SunTrust Chairman and CEO William H. Rogers, Jr. "We're investing in this ad because the Super Bowl is a unique and proven forum to launch a national conversation. We want to be the spark that motivates people to take action, and give them tools and access to information to move closer to financial confidence."

The SunTrust ad will serve as one catalyst for social change and a call-to-action for Americans to consider doing something positive about money and finances. "As a bank, we interact with thousands of people and businesses every day. We have an opportunity and an obligation to help them and others in our communities achieve financial wellness," Rogers said.

The commercial is being created by New York-based StrawberryFrog, known for its outstanding creative work and history of supporting purpose-driven companies.

"Our Super Bowl ad is a shift from business-as-usual. It's about raising awareness that financial stress is a serious issue and it's time to do something about it," said SunTrust Chief Marketing Officer Susan Somersille Johnson. "Just like physical fitness, people need inspiration and support to tackle what's holding them back from pursuing a life well spent. Let's start the conversation."