As a new resident of Natchez, I appreciate the efforts of Brandy Lewis, Sheriff Patten, the AKA Sorority and others who are working to promote mental health in our community. Together there is much we can do to make life better here. People who have illnesses like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and anxiety will benefit from these efforts. One in four people will have a diagnosable mental illness at some time in their lifetime. These illnesses affect every family.

The good news about mental illness is that treatment works. We need better access to good treatment in Adams County. One option to help people who have brain disorders is to partner with the Mississippi National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This organization is part of the national grassroots organization which provides education, support and advocacy for people with mental illness and their families. Their website, www.nami.org, is an excellent resource for information about mental illness. NAMI trains people to lead support groups and has excellent, free educational programs. NAMI also trains law enforcement professionals, teachers and others in communities. Crisis Intervention Training (C. I. T.), which Sheriff Patten is considering, will make a big difference in our community.

Southwest Mental Health services, psychiatrists and counselors offer treatment options. The Department of Mental Health’s Mobile Crisis Response teams can offer evaluation and treatment to individuals in crisis.

When people living with mental illness are critically ill and cannot act on their own behalf, commitment to one of our state hospitals is an option that can help individuals begin recovery and again be contributing members of our society. Long gone are the days when Whitfield was a place to be feared. Unfortunately, in order to get treatment, individuals who are a danger to themselves or others often end up in jail while they await a place at a state hospital. People who are seriously ill should not be put in jail. Regrettably, this is the only current option for many in Mississippi who need help. A Crisis Stabilization Unit, which the county is exploring, is a positive alternative to putting someone in jail. We can help reduce stigma and shame associated with mental illness. We have good options available for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer and other chronic illnesses. People with mental illness deserve no less.

 

Emily Fox

Natchez resident