Creates mental illness and chemical dependence initiative

BILL NUMBER:S4760A

Title of bill

An act to amend the mental hygiene law, in relation to creating a public education initiative designed to eliminate stigma and misinformation about mental illness and chemical dependence among military service members; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof

Purpose or general idea of bill

Creates a public education initiative designed to eliminate stigma and misinformation about mental illness and chemical dependence among military service members.

Summary of specific provisions

Section one amends section 7.09 of the Mental Hygiene law by requiring the commissioner of the office of mental health the commissioner of the office of mental health, in conjunction with the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services and director of the division of veterans' affairs to create a public education initiative designed to eliminate stigma and misinformation about mental illness and chemical dependence among service members, veterans, and their families, improve their understanding of mental and substance use disorders and the existence of effective treatment, and provide information regarding available resources and how to access them.

Section two provides the effective date and expiration date of June 30, 2014.

Justification

Through their service, many military personnel in New York were exposed to or have experienced trauma, placing many of them in high risk categories of triggering underlying conditions, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), substance abuse problems or other mental health issues. According to the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, at least one in three Iraq veterans and one in nine Afghanistan veterans will face a mental health issue like depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

According to the United States substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, "the impact of military reality on individual mental health is complicated further by the pronounced stigma associated with mental illness within military communities. Service members frequently cite fear of personal embarrassment, fear of disappointing comrades fear of losing the opportunity for career advancement, and fear of dishonorable discharge as motivations to hide the symptoms of mental illness from colleagues, friends and family. This silence and the attitudes and perceptions perpetuating it pose a significant

challenge to those charged with making sure that the United States fighting force is improving itself and taking care of its own members."

Left untreated, combat-related mental health issues can and does destroy the lives of veterans and their families. Untreated combat related mental health issues can manifest itself through substance abuse, the criminal justice system, and suicide. These brave Americans have laid their lives on the line in service to their country. Until stigma is addressed and the reality of the mental health needs of military veterans is fully recognized, our returning troops and veterans from wars past will continue to suffer.

Fiscal implication

Not yet determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately: