(Nov. 28, 2016) GivingTuesday, a global day dedicated to giving. Today and every day, the Treatment Advocacy Center is fighting for people with severe mental illness. Donate today and join us in this fight.
Since the 1950s, the number of inpatient hospital beds in America has decreased by 96.5%, making it extremely difficult for those living with severe mental illness to get the treatment they need. With the right services and support, people with severe mental illness can stay out of jail and off the streets, living healthy lives.
The Treatment Advocacy Center was founded to fill the need for mental health reform so that people don't end up in jails, or worse, before they get help. Bed shortages affect everyone.
a Bed Instead Story - Joy Torres
When I think back on my experience with mental illness, I think of the many ways things could have been different. I was diagnosed at a young age, in a very different time, when public opinion on mental illness diverged greatly from where it is today. Because I lived with paranoid schizophrenia and major depression, I was taken from my family at a young age and moved through the mental health system over and over again, only finding stability once I was able to access treatment and an inpatient bed.
I wish there had been resources for me and for my family. When I was young, there was no organization to help families dealing with a loved one's mental illness.
As for me, I'm currently functioning well and feeling good. I have housing that I share with a supportive partner who helps me stay on track. I make sure I take my medication and see my therapist and doctor regularly, because I know my life could be much different if I don't. I can tell the difference – and so can others – when I miss my medication, so I work hard to keep up with all of my prescriptions. While I still struggle, I know I'm successfully managing my mental illness because of the support I received and because I was able to access an inpatient bed. Because of this, I'm a vocal advocate for legislation that increases others' chances of getting a bed. State and Federal authorities need to cooperate to provide dedicated hospitals that offer inpatient care where people can get on the right medication, stabilize and learn what it's like to feel better.
Donate today to help us fight for mental health reform and the increase of beds for those in need. All donations made between now and December 31st, will be matched up to $50,000 by a generous benefactor. A $100 donation from you will lead to an additional $100 from our benefactor - totaling a $200 gift.
During 2017, we will continue our vital work across the country. Untreated mental illness impacts all aspects of our society – criminal justice, healthcare, homelessness, and civil rights. The time for change is now.
P.P.S. - All donations are fully tax-deductible and support the only national nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers to treatment for people with severe mental illness.
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