Strengthened state and federal policies for equitable and upstream approaches to mental health.

PI’s advocacy approach to mental health and wellbeing begins with the understanding that mental health is a health equity issue, and focuses on strengthening protective factors (such as social connection, economic opportunity, and safe communities) and removing barriers to wellbeing. In 2023, we worked with the California Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission to develop guidance for advancing mental health equity in the state through a focus on community-defined evidence practice. This guidance rests on a set of principles, including acknowledging structural racism and focusing on community-centeredness and transparency. An accompanying policy framework includes recommended actions such as embedding health equity and racial justice into state mental/behavioral health policy, programs, and systems from the beginning; shifting and sharing power and decision making with community members; bolstering partnerships; and strengthening narrative change and strategic communications.

Our approach to mental health and wellbeing is further reflected in our federal policy advocacy work, which included co-leading updates to Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder title of the Health Equity Accountability Act alongside the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) for the third year; participating in a national partner convening to provide feedback on CDC’s new framework on mental health promotion and suicide prevention; and co-sponsoring and providing remarks at congressional briefings on the Community Mental Wellness and Resilience Act of 2023.

Funders: Prevention Institute relies only on unrestricted funds to support our limited grassroots and direct lobbying efforts. Non-lobbying support to strengthen our mental health policy work was provided by the California Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission.

Image by by Joel Muniz.