Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc.
(Publication Archives)

Community Connections, Fall 2003

Violence, Trauma and Mental Health
By Joseph A. Glazer, Esq., President/CEO, MHANYS

This issue of Community Connections focuses on violence and trauma. Considering the often violent nature of our world, how violence and trauma impact a person's mental health is of paramount concern.

As practitioners, advocates and participants in the realm of mental health care, we recognize so many facets of trauma and violence in everyday life. Typically, we find ourselves on the defensive, as the media, and all too often the public, link mental health and violence through the role of the perpetrator.

Yes, studies have shown over and over that a person living with mental illness, who is not abusing substances is no more likely to commit a crime than any one else in your neighborhood. Other studies indicate that a person with a mental illness is many times more likely to be the victim of a crime than to commit one.

Under the glare of societal misconception, we labor to assist those who need our help. Unfortunately, we are reaching only a percentage of those who need treatment and support. In some age and demographic groups, we know that the vast majority of people in need are going without. From stigma to fear to ignorance, reasons abound as to why people are not getting the help they need. Many efforts to identify, provide outreach and serve are detailed in this issue of Community Connections - MHANYS wants to thank you for the work that you are doing, and urges you to support programs that deter violence and help those who are victimized by it.

Timothy's Law by Land, Air and See –

As you will learn in the public policy section, statewide support for Timothy's law continues to grow. The legislation, named after 12 year-old Timothy O'Clair, who completed his suicide in March of 2001, would eliminate health insurance discrimination against mental illnesses and chemical dependency.

The summer months have not been slow for the Timothy's Law campaign. Included in the campaign as we approach the fall are billboards going up across the state, a State Senate Democratic hearing on the proposal, and even a flying banner over the Saratoga racetrack, calling on the Senate to pass Timothy's Law.

Please continue your efforts to pass Timothy's Law. For more information, visit our website, www.mhanys.org or www.timothyslaw.org.

posted 9/18/03