| In this course, students will explore US mental health policy and critically analyze whether or not those policies are effectively addressing our Nation’s behavioral health needs. Beginning with the very first efforts to legislate in this policy area, continuing into current times, students will explore how the US Federal government has and does perceive mental illness, what impact science has had on various policy initiatives and why we still remain in a state of crisis. Topics to be explored will be but are not limited to; institutionalization versus community-based services, the impact of adverse childhood experiences, PTSD and the military, brain science and its impact on policy and practice, mechanisms of financing mental health services, our current opioid crisis, and of course COVID. We will hear from congressional staff and other national experts in the area as well as incorporate, when possible, congressional hearings and other relevant activities. Major mental health legislation is already being introduced for the Spring so it should be a very dynamic and exciting time! |