Knox County Mental Health America Director Kathy Evans and I had a very interesting experience last week as we served as national advocates for members of Congress to discuss supporting various bills to support mental health programs and services. .
During the month of March, many people focus on service as a Lenten practice. There is no greater service to others than defending their rights. This is something everyone can do together with Congress. Kathy and I, along with many others across the country, spoke with the office's staff about her six specific bills that we would like to support. Personally, I found this experience extremely valuable and informative.
The current situation supporting mental health funds is very positive, with more people using services than ever before. Regarding the rise in anxiety in our society, which is prevalent among people of all ages, there are calls for action in Congress.
It would be too much work (pardon the pun) to go into detail in this article about everything we discussed with members of Congress, but we want to reassure all constituents and citizens that Congress is heeding your calls and letters. It's important to remember that. Track which components they focus on. As an example of this, you may know that this is an election year and that retiring Congressman Larry Bushon has more than half a dozen candidates for his 8th District seat. What I would suggest to you is that there are three main things you can ask your congressman and senator to do for individuals and families dealing with mental health issues.
• Support increased appropriations for the FY2025 Mental Health Fund.
• Support for PEERS in the Medicare Act of 2023
• Support increased research funding for young people addressing mental health issues.
These, along with the funding of the 988 Crisis Line, are the most important issues from an advocacy perspective. More funding for professionals, paraprofessionals and in-network peer support, a better understanding of how to deal with young people in crisis, and more information about how 988 is saving lives as a crisis line. Awareness has increased.
Consider it a Lenten-like ministry responsibility to reach out and ask those who need help with additional resources.
