There’s likely no part of the title of this recent ABC article that shocks anyone, sadly.
Upon reading further into it, & other recent articles (spanning the political spectrum) here’s what I’ve come across – calls for proposals to better fund MH. Here’s a sample of one of the article’s asks:
That local, state, & federal govts. take the following actions:
1) Provide an immediate increase in funding to Medicaid providers, & in-need communities.
2) Increase funding for peer support & community based services.
3) Address the social determinants of MH.
4) Commit to permanently funding these programs.
Anyone else read this list & immediately think, SERIOUSLY? Like how in the world are these simplistic things NOT already happening, given how ppl are being impacted?
I get it. This pandemic rocked our world, & decisions & funding for general needs had to be taken care of. Things like $ for small businesses to keep employees afloat (PPP), $ for PPE for front-line workers, $1,200 stimulus checks for those making under a certain amount, return to school plans, etc.
Ok & on top of this, the good folks in D.C. (again both sides of the aisle) are playing chicken bc big elections are coming up, & are unwilling to compromise on extensions on the above bc it may seem like a “win to the other side.”
Fine, we get all of that. And I’m sorry to curse but w the obvious being what we’re seeing in the title of this article – HOW IN THE F is MH not even a topic of convo when it comes to funding? When Congress gets together? When the candidates debate?
If we think there’s rising MH #s now, just wait for the long term impacts. Unfortunately I know first-hand how stress/trauma build cumulatively & take us down months/yrs later.
MH has always taken a back seat. Maybe they think it’s a more complicated solve. Maybe it doesn’t drive enough votes. Maybe lobbyist/industries don’t want it addressed bc we’re more valuable sick.
This CANT happen any more. The time to talk, act & fund for this avalanche approaching us is NOW. Please speak up – write letters, make calls. If we don’t make noise, nothing will change.
