Mental health care is a right that every human should be able to access in an easy manner.
Written by Mahi Poodari
World Mental Health Day, on October 10th, reminds us to raise awareness and advocate for mental health globally. This year, the theme was "our minds, our rights" emphasizing that accessibility to mental healthcare is a fundamental human right.
An example of society upholding mental health rights is a new mental health center in Santa Clara County. This residential treatment center provides psychiatric care and support for individuals seeking help. This facility helps to bridge the gap between higher and lower levels of behavior health care thus community members will be given a chance to continue their journeys in a safe and supportive environment.
This facility will be under the care of Momentum for Health, one of the largest behavioral health nonprofits in Santa Clara County. This center focuses on empowering patients to live a fulfilling life by providing psychiatric support, meals, housekeeping, transportation, and life skills activities. One of the biggest causes of the mental health crisis is the accessibility to mental health care, specifically financial costs. However, this center will be helping those who are on Medi-Cal, undocumented, and unsponsored.
It’s important to advance mental health rights and accessibility to care, especially within our community. According to San Jose spotlight, Santa Clara “declared a mental health emergency in Janurary 2022 due to increases in suicides and drug overdoses.” Initiatives such as this new recovery center will offer hope for people who urgently need behavioral health care and support. It is a fundamental human right for society to receive mental health care.
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