Politico (6/4, Smith) reports, “States looking to address gun violence are overhauling mental health laws – and sometimes exposing rifts over how to best address the small but serious threat of violence.” However, “changing policies on involuntary commitment, or requiring therapists to report potentially dangerous patients, are stirring fears that well-intentioned policies could increase stigma and deter the very people who most need treatment from getting it.” While the majority of people with mental illnesses are not violent, “some of the horrific mass shootings in recent years have been carried out by people with serious mental diseases, reinforcing stereotypes.” Now, some mental health advocates are concerned about a “backlash.”
Related Links:
— “With mental health legislation stalled in Congress, states act, “Kathryn Smith, Politico, June 02, 2013.