Mental Health America
Releases Toolkits on
Five Key Advocacy Issues

Health Reform, Parity, State Budget Advocacy,

Criminal Justice, Access to Medications

Contact: Steve Vetzner, (703) 797-2588 or svetzner@mentalhealthamerica.net

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (January 6, 2011)-Mental Health America has created toolkits on five key issues to help advocates navigate emerging trends and the impact of federal legislation on the states.

The five toolkits-linked here-cover Health Reform; State Budget Advocacy; Access to Medications; Criminal Justice; and Parity. They offer handy and essential information for advocates, including white papers, fact sheets, sample legislation, talking points, and additional resources.

"The passage of parity and health reform, budget problems, and other issues create challenges at the state level," said David Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America.

"These toolkits will empower advocates by sharing information on policies and offering strategies to positively affect the lives of children, youth, and adults with mental health and substance use conditions."

The toolkits were created by representatives of Mental Health America's Regional Policy Council, which is made up of affiliate policy leaders from around the country who strengthen Mental Health America's advocacy reach at the state and federal levels.

The Policy Council, established in 2009, disseminates best practices, innovative policy options, model legislation, and other resources to affiliates and relevant stakeholders on parity implementation, health care reform, access to medications, and other pertinent issues.

Mental Health America is the country's leading nonprofit dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives. With our century of service to America and our more than 300 affiliates nationwide, we represent a national movement that promotes mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation- everyday and in times of crisis.