Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces Resolution Prioritizing Mental Health to the Same Degree as Physical Health
Washington, D.C. - May 21, 2024 - Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-MI) celebrated the introduction of H.Res.1242 - Prioritizing mental health to the same degree as physical health to address the epidemics of suicide and drug overdose in the United States. This important resolution, introduced by Rep. Thanedar, aims to establish that mental health conditions require the same degree of attention as physical health conditions.
“Mental Health is an incredibly personal issue to me. In 1996, I lost my first wife to her own struggles with mental health. It was a dark time that brought unimaginable pain and a sense of helplessness that words can barely convey.” said Rep. Thanedar. “Her passing was a turning point in my life. It led me to realize that mental health struggles are often silent, unseen battles. It taught me the importance of compassion and the need for accessible mental health services for all.”
Two original co-sponsors joined Rep. Thanedar on this resolution: Rep. Darren Soto (FL-09) and Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18).
"I am proud to support this crucial resolution to elevate mental health to the same level of importance as physical health, addressing the twin epidemics of suicide and drug overdose with the urgency and compassion they demand,” said Congressman Soto. “Together, we can create a healthier, more supportive America for all — ensuring that no one has to face these challenges alone and that every individual has access to the care they need to thrive."
The resolution is also supported by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention saying, “In 2022, alarmingly suicide was the 11th leading cause of death with nearly 50,000 people losing their lives to suicide in the United States,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer. “AFSP is grateful to Rep. Thanedar, Rep. Jackson Lee, and Rep. Soto for leading this important resolution to affirm that mental health is treated the same as physical health, to raise awareness for the importance of suicide prevention and behavioral health care, and to support the vision of suicide prevention as described in the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, our nation’s new roadmap for suicide prevention. Congress has made significant investments in mental health and suicide prevention in the last decade, and we are proud to support this resolution to build on that progress.”