CASSIDY FOR MENTAL HEALTH is the headline for Ann OBriens letter - TopicsExpress

CASSIDY FOR MENTAL HEALTH is the headline for Ann OBriens letter to the editor, published in the Downeast Coastal Press this week. Ann writes: Editor: I am writing in support of Katherine Cassidy and her work to help a large population of untreated or undertreated people with mental illness and their families in Washington County. Katherine has been joining regularly in a local Community Circle for Integrated Behavioral/Medical Health. Katherine and others in the circle recognize mental health as a priority. This group of consumers, families, providers and others meets to shape ideas and plans, and to talk about concerns many would rather avoid. The Machias Community Circle has circulated wallet cards for emergency mental health plans, has renewed interest and training for a local NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) support group and has helped to inspire grant funding for immediate access to medical and mental health care for inmates released from the Washington County Jail. At the state level, Katherine advocates for local mental health needs on the Health and Human Services Committee and she has supported MaineCare expansion. Many uninsured people with persistent and severe mental illness are cared for in emergency rooms, in psychiatric hospitals and in the county jail, incurring unnecessary and vast medical and social costs. Above all, Katherine is an unbiased listener and a person of integrity.Her dedication to some of our most vulnerable and voiceless citizens transcends political parties. If you care about the mental health of our county as I do, vote for Katherine. Ann OBrien, Cutler