The need for new and improved policies to help improve the lives of those impacted by mental health conditions has never been greater. Here are steps you can take to be a mental health advocate.
Support National Policies Endorsed by NAMI National
Take Action: It’s been two years since the launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and there’s more work to be done to ensure everyone can get the help they need in a crisis. Urge Congress to consider legislation to improve the accuracy of crisis response by matching calls to the closest crisis center using the caller’s approximate (not exact) location instead of their phone’s area code. Sign NAMI’s petition here.
Take Action: Urge Congress to Help Grow the Mental Health Workforce. Across the country, more people than ever are seeking mental health care, yet there is an extreme shortage of mental health providers to meet the demand. We need the Mental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Act. Sign NAMI’s petition.
Take Action: Tell Congress to Support Mental Health Research. Imagine if cancer, heart disease or diabetes was diagnosed just by using a short list of questions to assess symptoms. Due to the complexity of the brain and lack of strong research, this is how people are currently diagnosed with mental health conditions. This results in many mistakes in diagnosis and ineffective treatment. Sign NAMI’s petition.
Take Action: Support the Reentry Act. The Reentry Act is bipartisan-supported legislation that would provide Medicaid coverage for health care, including substance use and mental health treatment, for people who are incarcerated starting 30 days before their release. That means people would better be able to connect to and access community mental health services. Sign NAMI’s petition here.
More: Stay informed of NAMI’s national policy priorities: https://nami.quorum.us/action_center/
Support Local Legislation and Follow Actions By Your Local Leaders
Stay Informed: Sign up for email updates from your local representatives, and follow them on social media to stay updated on their policy decisions and priorities—and let them know what’s important to you!
Find your Congressional representative here.
Find your California State Senator here
Find your Los Angeles representative.
Learn to Be An Advocate
NAMI California’s Advocacy Toolkit includes guidance on how to be mental health advocate.
Vote and Help Get Out the Vote
Every election provides us with an opportunity to vote for leaders and laws to improve mental health services for individuals, families and communities. Commit to registering to vote in each election, make a voting plan, and encourage your friends, family and co-workers to vote as well!
Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk
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