March 5, 1999

President Bill Clinton's remarks on mental illness in his January 19 State of the Union address were warmly greeted by APA President Rodrigo Muņoz, M.D. and mental health advocates.

President Clinton remarked: "Let me say we must step up our efforts to treat and prevent mental illness. No American should ever be afraid-ever-to address this disease. This year, we will host a White House Conference on Mental Health. With sensitivity, commitment, and passion, Tipper Gore is leading our efforts here, and I'd like to thank her for what she's done" (see page 1).

Muņoz observed that both Clinton and Vice President Al Gore have "made clear their appreciation for mental health services for a very long time." Muņoz noted that during Clinton's first presidential campaign, the candidate had openly acknowledged seeking family counseling in connection with his brother's cocaine problem. Similarly, the Gores have acknowledged that they sought counseling when confronting their son's near death.

"President Clinton has very often talked about protection for the mentally ill, and both Al and Tipper Gore have shown in action that they care for our patients," said Muņoz. "Tipper Gore has gone far beyond the call of duty to be at the very front of the struggle for better mental health care. The President's speech confirms an irrevocable commitment to our patients and to their well-being."

The Mental Health America (NMHA) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also praised the President's remarks.

NMHA President Michael Faenza pointed to Clinton's proposed 24 percent increase in funding for community mental health care block grants to the states, commenting that it "would boost much-needed services for people with severe mental illnesses."

Severe mental illnesses are "very treatable illnesses, but for too long too many people have fallen through the cracks," he added. "The sad result has been unnecessary homelessness, incarceration, and misery. This proposed increase in funding will help more people recover from their illness and lead productive, rewarding lives."

In a letter mailed to Tipper Gore the day after the President's remarks, NAMI Executive Director Laurie Flynn congratulated both the President and Mrs. Gore for announcing the White House Conference on Mental Health. The conference, said Flynn, "represents a historic opportunity for consumers, family members, health care providers, and policymakers to develop strategies for improving conditions for individuals and their families struggling with mental illnesses."