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    4 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
    Why does behavioral health matter? Behavioral health matters because off the critical role it plays in individual’s overall well-being. Additionally, matters of behavioral health cut across all ethnicities, genders, ages, and socio-economic classes making it a universal issue and priority. MORE
    What steps should California take to increase access to care for those with mental illness and substance use challenges? Coming from a part of Riverside County that has several rural areas, I can attest to the lack of accessibility of care for those with mental health and substance use challenges. As a state, we need to make every effort to expand healthcare coverage to all residents while also expanding our public transportation networks. Expanding healthcare coverage would remove institutional access barriers. For areas that are not densely populated, an expanded public transportation system would create more access for those in need of services, particularly specialized services, that are not available in their immediate community. MORE
    How can California lead the way in destigmatizing behavioral health conditions? California can lead the way through a statewide campaign to educate the public on the frequency of behavioral health conditions. We can also lead the way by speaking open and honestly about our own experiences in order to break down the stigmas of behavioral and mental health. Additionally, our state could make it’s budget reflect our values. If we know education, health care, housing, and accessibility are the top priorities for meeting the behavioral and mental health needs of Californians, then those should be the same top priorities in the California budget. MORE
    Will you commit to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority? I will absolutely commit myself to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority. MORE
  • full q+a
    4 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
    Why does behavioral health matter? Behavioral health is unfortunately widespread in the northern counties that I live in, those counties north of Sacramento to the Oregon border. Not only does it matter to those of us who work with small and large groups of persons, but it is unfunded, therefore often making it difficult to convince local and state leaders of its importance. As Chief of my tribe, the Winnemem Wintu, I find this rather prevalent within my community. It matters in so far as we have to take it seriously and make great strides to help our fellow community members to have a wholesome and viable life. MORE
    What steps should California take to increase access to care for those with mental illness and substance use challenges? Find funding for local treatment facilities. Funds should be available via several ballot measures that have passed over the last few years; especially lobbying for funds to be allocated to rural counties. MORE
    How can California lead the way in destigmatizing behavioral health conditions? Making behavioral health a community-wide effort is one way to destigmatize a population that is often feared and misunderstood. Shasta Co. seems to have a good outreach program and program leader. They have community discussions and art exhibits by those who are able to come forth and discuss their personal stories. This helps break down the stereotype. MORE
    Will you commit to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority? Yes. When elected to the State Assembly, I will help lead the way on this community health issue. MORE
  • full q+a
    3 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
    Why does behavioral health matter? Behavior and mental health are major challenges facing our society. It knows no ethnic, regional or economic boundaries. Stigma that comes from an individuals condition cause people to suffer in silence, and society has been hesitant to discuss this issue in the public forum Behavior health conditions take a toll on the individual, his family and friends, his job, and the healthcare industry. Victims of people with mental health issues have suffered undo injuries. MORE
    What steps should California take to increase access to care for those with mental illness and substance use challenges? Elected leaders can support mental health care programs, education and assessment programs and comprehensive treatment options for those who suffer fro mental health and substance abuse problems. Local communities can work together with health care leaders and non-profit and organizations to ensure access to care, encourage businesses and employers to offer services to their employees, support insurance reimbursements, support school counselors and support society to begin talking about mental health and substance abuse and removing the stigma of mental health. MORE
    How can California lead the way in destigmatizing behavioral health conditions? We can increase the conversation and discuss health issues in our society. Public education and awareness are needed. We must have a frank and honest conversation with family, friends and health care people. Community organizations and leaders play a key role in discussions at the local level. Elected leaders can work with these people on the local level. I have supported Assembylwoman Catharine Baker's efforts to handle mental health issues. Her efforts in AB 1893, AB 1971, AB 2193. AB 2333, AB 532, AB 2443 and AB 773 have my full support. MORE
  • full q+a
    1 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
    Will you commit to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority? Behavioral Health matters because it affects all of us – our loved ones, our family members and our friends. I am committed to making behavioral health a top policy priority. MORE
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