Women In Government Task Force Focuses On Mental Health

Mental illness is a serious issue that affects millions of people. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 26.2 percent, or one in four, Americans over the age of 18 suffer from some sort of mental disorder.  This means that approximately sixty million people in the United States have a mental illness, making mental illness the leading cause of disability in America from ages 15 to 44.  Two reasons for barriers to care in America include the high costs of insurance for mental health services and the stigma that surrounds mental illness.   

Women In Government's policy recommendations were developed by a bi-partisan Mental Health Task Force and approved by its Board of Directors.  The Mental Health Task Force aims to promote recovery and resiliency through access to and the integration of primary and mental healthcare services, eliminating stigma and enhancing the quality of life for persons with mental illness across their lifespan.  The Task Force supports an innovative approach by educating policymakers, the public, and other stakeholders, implementing evidence-based and early intervention and prevention strategies, enabling effective state policies and advocating for sound federal policies.

Read the Policy Recommendations.

Read the Press Release.