2012-2013 Policy & Advocacy

<-- 2012-2013 MCH Competency Reflections

Sarah Rosso, Director of Public Education at Mental Health America Allegheny County (MHAAC) spoke with us about advocacy and resources available through MHAAC for individuals with mental health diagnoses. MHAAC serves youth ages 0-21, in addition to adults, with a primary diagnosis of a mental health disability. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and behavioral problems. Services provided by MHA include referrals for special education services, transition services, support services, extended school year information, and help with individualized education plans and meetings.

This talk most closely related to the MCHB leadership competencies of Working with Communities and Systems and Policy and Advocacy.  Ms. Rosso illustrated the pervasiveness of the stigma associated with mental health diagnoses by describing the difficulties in attaining proper health care, choosing appropriate housing, and gaining employment. In addition to advocating for opportunities in these areas that inhibit an individual from full participation in community activities, current policy advocacy includes budget adjustments that would provide transportation, waivers for prescription co-pays, and photo identification. A modest raise in fund disbursement would allow recipients to pay for these important goods and services that ultimately provide them with greater access to community involvement. In addition, MHA empowers individuals to advocate for their rights, including access to voting.

Overall, Ms. Rosso emphasized the importance of advocacy and her passion for the topic was apparent.  Through public education programs and policy advocacy, a significant difference can be made on a macro level.  She highlighted MHA’s mission and how they are striving to frame mental health as a public issue.  We learned how this issue is fundamental to the health of all Americans. 

One goal of the LEND program is to forge partnerships with community-based leaders, organizations, and advocacy groups and MHA has the potential to connect LEND trainees and families to any of these.  Because families that work with LEND teams frequently need these services, MHA could provide significant assistance in meeting a family’s goals. MHA has a similar vision as LEND in that both strive to prepare and support children and their families for current and future difficulties. Furthermore, MHA and LEND focus on a child’s strengths and abilities rather than their impairments and disabilities.