What you can do

Advocate!

Your advocacy efforts are key in helping to shape both state laws and budgets. There are many points in the legislative process at which you can become more involved–from the drafting and introduction of a bill to its passage and enactment into law. The importance of getting involved cannot be overstated. Most state legislators know very little about mental health related issues and the impact that they have on people’s lives. They have much to learn from you and other key stakeholders.

It is important to remember that your state representatives work for you and the other constituents in their district. They are elected by a majority of their constituents and remain interested in local issues and how they can work to benefit the community. Most also want to be re-elected so recognize the need to keep constituents happy. At the same time, they must balance competing interests, including the need to support effective programs while remaining fiscally responsible.

To learn more about how you can effectively advocate for children’s mental health in your state, check out the State Advocacy Toolkit!