Wellstone, who has family members afflicted by mental illness, has been a lifelong advocate for the mentally ill and is recognized as a national leader in the fight against mental illness. When people struggle with severe depression they lose hope. I want the Governor of Minnesota to understand that this mental illness is not a moral failing. And I want Governor Ventura to understand that all these families that have gone through so much pain need support. They do not need ridicule.
Clinical depression is one of the most common illnesses.
It affects more than 19 million Americans a year. But if we don't have the resources to fund treatment for mental health, then all the research and education and information may be for nothing. The clinical care that is needed may never reach those who need it the most. Untreated mental illness so often leads to tragedy like suicide. The program funds grants to states and territories based on a legislative formula, and is critically important funding for tens of thousands of individuals with mental illness, their families, and their communities.