A companion to S. 2639, introduced in the Senate earlier this year, this important bill will provide for greater treatment of mental illnesses. The purpose of the legislation is to save lives-by reducing suicides and tragic episodes of violence. It is intended to help people who need help the most, before tragedies occur. Mental illnesses such as major depression or schizophrenia are biological brain disorders. This legislation will help close those gaps.
Suicide exists as a public health crisis.
Some 30,000 Americans commit suicide each year. Even more alarmingly, suicide is the third leading cause of death for children and adolescents. Ninety percent of all suicides involve mental illness. This legislation will help prevent suicides. Effective treatments exist.