Mental Health America Issues New Position Statements

Contact:  Jason Halal, (703) 797-1943 or jhalal@mentahealthamerica.net

ALEXANDRIA, VA (March 14, 2007) - Mental Health America has issued new public policy position statements reflecting its official stance on four issues affecting the mental health of Americans.  These policy positions guide advocates, policymakers and mental health stakeholders as they promote quality mental health systems.

The new position statements include:

• Health And Wellness For People with Serious Mental Illnesses: states Mental Health America's commitment to reducing high rates of morbidity and mortality among individuals with serious mental illnesses and offers strategies for federal and state governments, providers and consumers, families and communities in reducing these disparities.
  
  
• Participant Protections in Psychiatric Research: recommends measures to protect the health, safety and rights of individuals with mental health conditions participating in psychiatric research.
    
  
• Access to Healthcare: outlines the need for innovative approaches to increase access to and improve the quality of health care, and supports a national plan to provide an array of comprehensive, culturally- and linguistically-appropriate health care services for all people.    
  
  
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): provides an overview of benefits and risks and recommendations for states in monitoring ECT's use and ensuring conformity with current clinical guidelines. 

The Mental Health America board of directors reviews and updates the association's policy position statements every five-seven years to reflect its evolving role in mental health advocacy and to address new issues affecting the nation's mental health.  A full list of position statements is available at http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/position-statements. 

Mental Health America is the country's leading nonprofit dedicated to helping ALL people live mentally healthier lives.  With our more than 320 affiliates nationwide, we represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation - everyday and in times of crisis.