Sunday, June 19
Public Policy, Networking and Celebration
Day two of the 2005 NAMI Convention was jam-packed with opportunities for learning and networking.
A highlight of the day was a special seminar on mental health issues in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. This seminar brought together consumers and family members from these communities along with researchers and providers to share their collective knowledge and experience when dealing with mental illness.
Sunday’s policy briefings focused on access to decent and affordable housing; the new Medicare drug benefit; and a review of NAMI’s legislative agenda on Capitol Hill regarding Medicaid, children’s issues, criminalization and funding for housing and mental illness research and services.
Networking session brought attendees together around veteran’s issues, faith and spirituality, children’s mental health and Crisis Intervention Training.
The Opening Plenary addressed the convention theme of "ransforming the Mental Health System in America,"with speeches from Edwardo Sanchez, commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and King Davis, chair of the School of Social Work at the University of Texas. Attendees were also presented with an update on NAMI’s Campaign for the Mind of America and how it is driving the debate on mental health reform around the country.
The day concluded with Celebration Recovery!, a great evening of games, food, dancing, prizes, art, fun, live music.
View photos of Sunday's activities!
More Daily Highlights: June 18 | June 19 | June 20 | June 21
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Stars helping slay stigma of mental illness
At a time when Texas' public mental health system is cracking under the strain of too many patients and too little money, Austin celebrities are joining the ranks of national figures who are openly talking about their battles with mental illness.
(opens new window toAustin American-Statesman
; requires free registration)
