Mental illness is a serious issue that affects millions of people. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 26.2 percent, or one in four Americans over the age of 18, suffer from some sort of mental disorder. This means that approximately 60 million people in the United States have a mental illness, making mental illness the leading cause of disability in America from ages 15 to 44.  Since maternal mental health has significant effects on the health of children, mental health care for women during pregnancy and postpartum periods is vital to the long-term health of the mother and new child.

Women In Government, a national, bipartisan, nonprofit organization representing women state legislators, has issued policy recommendations on the issue of mental health, including access to and funding for mental health services, education to reduce stigma, and the value of mental health parity.  The Mental Health Task Force aims to promote recovery and resiliency through access to and the integration of primary and mental health care services, eliminating stigma and enhancing the quality of life for persons with mental illness across their lifespan. The Task Force supports an innovative approach by educating policy-makers, the public, and other stakeholders, implementing evidence-based and early intervention and prevention strategies, enabling effective state policies and advocating for sound federal policies.

To read the recommendations of the Mental Health Task Force, please visit www.womeningovernment.org.