Mental Health First Aid Act: A Policy Analysis

Abstract

Mental health is a critical part of overall wellness. Only 17% of United States adults are in a state of optimal mental health. Depression is the most common type of mental illness. Likewise, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is common in childhood and adolescence and is associated with functional impairment and suicide. Among teenagers and young adults, suicide was the second leading cause of death in 2013. Adolescents in foster care have considerably more psychiatric symptoms than their other counterparts. Mental health problems are also associated with gun violence. The purpose of this policy analysis paper is to emphasize the importance of different proposed bills and implemented policies for improving mental health outcomes. Several efforts have been made in the past to improve mental health care in the United States. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provided opportunities for expanded access to behavioral health care and established mental health and substance abuse care as essential coverage. The Mental Health First Aid Act (MHFAA) was a bill introduced in Congress in order to improve awareness, identification, and ability to appropriately respond to the needs of persons experiencing symptoms of mental disorders. The goal of this act is to provide mental health first aid training to first responders. Mental health stigma is a significant barrier to participation in mental health care. Mental health first aid training can play a significant role in building community awareness and reducing stigma. Primary care providers can also play significant roles in early identification and establishment of care coordination of mental illnesses. The positive parenting programs that motivate parents to come and discuss their family issues without any fear or shame are advantageous in improving positive outcomes. Also, policies in reducing the scarcity of the mental health providers in all states and counties should be considered. Citation: Bhatta S (2018) Mental Health First Aid Act: A Policy Analysis. J Psychiatry Depress Anxiety 4: 013.