I have been discussing mental health issues vis-a-vis the gun issue. I want to bring more of a spotlight regarding the issues of mental health to the Daily Kos community. I am hoping that there are other people in the community that want to work on educating our fellow members in the hope of bringing better understanding and to discuss policies that will make the lives of people with mental health issues better.
First a little information about myself. I worked as a legal advocate for people seeking services from a state's vocational rehabilitation programs. I did this for 6 1/2 years. My clients were comprised of people from across the disability spectrum, but overwhelmingly were people with mental illness. I also worked in a company that provided supports to people with Developmental Disabilities, many of whom also had mental health issues. I did many things from Q&A to plan development. My degrees are a BS in History/Political Science, and a J.D. All of my experience is OJT (on the job training). But 13 years + gave me a good knowledge base. In addition, a can freely admit that I myself have chronic depression and an anxiety disorder which in and of itself doesn't make me an expert but does give me perspective.
As I envision it, such a group would include any person with a mental health issue, or a family member with MH issue. It would also include people who have worked in the MH field, psychiatrists, psychologists, MSWs therapists/counselors. Anyone else who has served people with MH issues or worked on policy regarding MH issues would also be a good fit.
If there is already a group, please let me know in the comments. I scrolled through the list but didn't go through the whole thing. If you are interested and don't want to say so in the comments, shoot me a message.
I look forward to hearing from people, and there is a good response.