Now is the time to reevaluate our mental healthcare system. I urge you to form an advisory group consisting parents of children afflicted by mental illness, high school and college mental health counselors, psychiatrists and even representatives from health insurance organizations to evaluate where we are failing our young adults with mental illness, and how we can realistically improve their chances of success in society. Mental illness crosses all classes, however it has been considered taboo, and thus not discussed. Let's bring this into the spotlight, let families know they are not fighting their battles alone, and find ways to get those suffering from mental illness into appropriate treatment programs.
Why is this important?
This week we all grieve as a nation for the 26 victims of the Sandy Hook Massacre that took place this week. We cannot make sense of this tragic loss of life. President Obama, you have called for meaningful action to prevent tragedies such as this, and I agree wholeheartedly. While gun control is an issue that should be addressed in due time, the more pressing issue is the paucity of access to adequate healthcare for the mentally ill.
