Lois Capps: “Out of that tragedy, an opportunity has presented itself to us to finally acknowledge the sad realities of mental…”

“Out of that tragedy, an opportunity has presented itself to us to finally acknowledge the sad realities of mental illness, which for so long have been swept under the national rug. Health professionals agree that chronic conditions such as schizophrenia are best addressed through community-based treatment. Such programs provide outreach to people who are in danger of falling through the cracks of our mental health system. Last week, I was able to attend a briefing by the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, and I heard about a program of asserting community treatment called PACT. PACT involves individualized services, psychiatric, social, nursing, and vocation rehabilitation. It has been tremendously successful for those who have not responded to traditional methods of treatment. But only six States offer PACT statewide. This is simply not enough. These are wonderful, proven programs just waiting to be replicated. It is time for our whole country to face the challenges of mental illness, including treatment, housing, and employment. We must educate ourselves and take the steps to respond. Out of tragedy can come hope.”