Former Surgeon General Satcher Calls for Improved Mental Health Treatment, Access

The United States should make improved treatment and access to care for individuals with mental illness a "top national priority," former Surgeon General David Satcher said on Oct. 25 at an annual conference of the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. The conference, "Hope, Recovery and Cultural Inclusion," focused on increased public awareness to "let the public know that mental illnesses are treatable and people can lead productive and enjoyable lives," chapter President Carol Caruso said. At the conference, Satcher said that the United States must provide treatment for more individuals with mental illness, reduce the stigma of mental illness and improve access to care for individuals with mental illness through mental health parity laws. Although 20% of U.S. residents have a "diagnosable mental disorder," less than 50% of adults and less than 33% of children with mental disorders receive treatment, Satcher said. He added that he "heard more about mental health than any other issue" as surgeon general, the Inquirer reports. "Mental disorders are as disabling as cancer or heart disease in terms of premature death and loss of productivity," Satcher said, adding, "Mental health is fundamental to overall health and well-being" (Burling, Philadelphia Inquirer, 10/26).