mental health advocates

Lawmakers, veteran advocates and military families are marking Veterans Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, drawing attention to the ongoing crisis of suicide among US veterans. Events and statements highlight the need for continued mental health support, prevention programs and awareness of the resources available to former service members and their families.

California lawmakers have passed new legislation making incremental adjustments to the state's mental health court system, while proposals for more sweeping changes were rejected. The outcome leaves the core structure of the courts, which divert people with mental illness away from incarceration and into treatment, largely intact. Advocates on both sides had pushed for bigger reforms, and the decision to hold off on major changes is drawing attention.

Advocates, educators and mental health professionals gathered in Lansing, Michigan for a conference focused on youth mental health. Attendees discussed rising concerns among young people and strategies for better support in schools and communities. Organizers hope the event strengthens local networks and pushes the issue higher on the state's policy agenda.

A court has ended its oversight role in a landmark California case over the state's failure to provide mental health treatment to people awaiting trial in jail. The ACLU of Northern California, which has been involved in the long-running litigation, announced the development. Civil rights advocates have long argued that unconstitutionally long waits for treatment leave pretrial detainees in custody without adequate care.

Mental health care access is being discussed as providers and advocates look at ways to reduce barriers that keep people from getting treatment. The focus is on making services easier to reach, whether through cost, availability of providers, or fewer logistical hurdles for patients seeking help.