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    4 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
    Why does behavioral health matter? With one in four Americans experiencing behavioral health needs annually, it is clear that behavioral health is a critical issue throughout our communities, and should be as much as a priority as physical health in our progressive policy reforms. Whether it is ourselves or our loved ones who we care for, most of us experience at one time or another the challenges and pain that result from mental health or substance abuse needs. Currently, our health care system is not set up to effectively support these needs, and the stigma and prejudice around these issues remain a constant in our society. We can and must do better.  MORE
    What steps should California take to increase access to care for those with mental illness and substance use challenges? First and foremost, we need to end the displacement of and incarceration of people with behavioral health needs in our communities. Currently, those who lack mental health care services or substance abuse treatment services are more likely to become homeless, and homelessness often causes serious mental illness. Because of this negative cycle, about 1 in 5 homeless individuals report a mental health illness and/or a substance abuse disorder. MORE
    How can California lead the way in destigmatizing behavioral health conditions? We need to shift our collective mindset in California to acknowledge that mental health issues and substance abuse are chronic illnesses just like diabetes or heart conditions, and that we have a responsibility to meet these health needs with urgency and compassion, just like any physical health condition. In order to get to this place, we need to change the way we talk about and address behavioral health issues in all our public systems.  MORE
    Will you commit to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority? Yes, absolutely-- pushing legislation which strengthens funding for and systemwide coordination of behavioral health programs, and taking a stronger public health approach to these issues, is a top priority for me. After working on progressive causes ranging from spearheading anti-bullying campaigns to fighting for better health care and wages for Walmart workers, I understand well the critical role that behavioral health services play in keeping Californians healthy and ensuring our communities thrive. MORE
  • full q+a
    1 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
    Will you commit to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority? I'm fully committed to making behavioral health a priority in California. MORE
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