Public Policy Public policy makes a difference in the lives of both the people living with mental health conditions and the people in their lives. Changes in policy can mean better outcomes. Our advocacy efforts have led to many victories including: Securing better funding for research. Protecting access to treatments and services. Attaining mental health parity to ensure that mental illness is treated equally to physical illness in most insurance plans. But we still have work to do, and we need your help. Learn about mental health advocacy. Talk to your neighbors, friends and family about why these issues are important. Find out how you can get involved with your local NAMI's advocacy efforts. To learn more about NAMI's stance on advocacy and public policy issues that affect adults and children living with mental illness and their families, read the NAMI Public Policy Platform (PDF).
Family Education and Support Family support and education is fundamental to the well-being of children, youth, young adults and adults who live with mental health conditions. Learn More
Jailing People with Mental Illness In a mental health crisis, people are more likely to encounter police than get medical help. As a result, 2 million people with mental illness are booked into jails each year. Learn More
Medicaid Many states cover a broad array of community mental health services and supports in their Medicaid programs that are rarely, if ever, covered by private insurance. Learn More
Medicaid Expansion The ACA allows states to expand Medicaid eligibility to uninsured adults and children whose incomes are at or below 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Learn More
Mental Health in Schools School personnel are in a key position to identify the early warning signs of an emerging mental health condition and to link students with effective services and supports. Learn More
Mental Health Screening Mental health screening is essential to early identification and intervention of youth living with mental health conditions. Learn More
Parity for Mental Health Coverage Parity for mental health coverage helps ensure that people get the treatment they need from their health insurance. Learn More
Violence and Gun Reporting Laws Most people with mental illness are not violent. In fact, people with mental illness are more likely to be the victims of violence. Learn More
Growing Up with a Parent Experiencing Bipolar Disorder Reactions like that are why I want to tell the world about my experience—the fact that my little story could change someone’s perspective on mental illness, well, that’s huge. Read More of Growing Up with a Parent Experiencing Bipolar Disorder Share Your Story