Marggie Castellano

Mental and behavioral health have long been overlooked in the United States. It is unacceptable that patients who suffer from behavioral health issues don’t have access to the proper care they deserve. Mental and behavioral health affects everyone, therefore it’s critical to make it a priority to make mental health care more accessible to those who need it.

I strongly support the Affordable Care Act and the work that it did to provide affordable healthcare to the most vulnerable in our state. However, the ACA is just a start. In a state as rich as California, it is horrifying that people still can’t receive the proper treatment. As a State Senator, I will work with other state legislators to reform mental health and addictions care and enact a more comprehensive approach to these issues.

One out of every five adults in the United States suffers from a diagnosable mental illness, but the stigma of mental illness often prevents people from getting the help they need. In order to lead the way in destigmatizing behavioral health conditions, California must work to educate people on the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use, and encourage openness and equality between physical and mental health.

Yes, absolutely. If elected to the Senate I will advocate for more accessible and affordable mental health care in California. I will work to expand access to mental health care and implement more funding for mental health professionals throughout California’s education system. I will support public policy that promotes comprehensive and integrated behavioral health care and treatment, and advocate for the adoption of policies that improve access to these services.