Policy Priorities
NAMI Chicago promotes policies that improve the mental health system locally and statewide. Through a bi-annual city-wide survey with stakeholders, we’ve identified some of the biggest gaps in the mental health system.
Here are the gaps that our stakeholders identified:
Wrap-around services
Wrap-around services like peer support and housing are crucial for mental health recovery and should be covered by insurance.
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Mental health treatment
Proper treatment settings are necessary for mental health recovery. When suitable treatment isn’t out there, individuals don’t engage in care for the full time they need.
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The criminal court system
Too often, the criminal court system is the only available entrance to mental health care in our state and city. This system needs reform around how to support individuals with mental health conditions.
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Health insurance parity
Though there are parity protections on the national and state level, there is more to do to make sure mental health care is covered the same as physical health care by insurance.
Here’s what we fight for alongside our community:
Prevention should be the foundation of a strong mental health system.
Early intervention during the first signs of a mental health condition is crucial for treatment. NAMI Chicago has successfully advocated for resources for early intervention and prevention at the state and city level. Some of our wins include the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act, Early Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Act, and the Children’s Mental Health Crisis Act.
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Everyone should have access to appropriate treatment at the appropriate time.
Treatment for mental health isn’t one size fits all. We need significant investments in mental health services so everyone can get the care they need. NAMI Chicago is helping lead the charge to expand coverage for mental health programs and treatment in our state, and bringing more services to the communities who need it most.
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Our crisis response systems should be coordinated and integrate trauma-informed practices.
We need to coordinate the work of our first responders, emergency departments, and the criminal court system to provide better pathways for mental health recovery. NAMI Chicago advocates across systems for better preparedness for mental health emergencies and care for those in crisis in partnership with first responder agencies, community organizations, and City Hall.
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Quality of mental health services are crucial.
If an individual has negative experiences within the mental health system, it can reduce the likelihood that they will continue treatment. We need to hold providers and payers accountable for the quality of their services. NAMI Chicago’s Helpline helps support this by directing people to the resources that serve them the best. We listen to our callers’ experiences and make sure our referrals meet their needs.