Congress needs to strengthen the nation’s substance abuse and mental health care delivery system by making it more streamlined and giving local communities the flexibility to meet their unique needs. Today’s system of services for mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness is fragmented and disconnected. This is due, in large part, to the many reforms and policy changes imposed upon the agency over the years.
States and local communities, who are on the front lines, can provide the best approach to the prevention and treatment of mental health, substance abuse and homelessness. This strategy will assist in ensuring scarce dollars are focused where the greatest need exists. The solutions for treating and preventing mental health issues, substance abuse, and homelessness lie within the states, communities, and individuals who see first hand, everyday, the destruction and challenges these issues can cause.
Today, the HELP Committee held a hearing titled “Transforming Mental Health and Substance Abuse Systems of Care: Community Integration and Recovery.