Increasing Access to Care through Advocacy

Our nation is grappling with multiple mental health and substance use crises. Lack of access to lifesaving care, record-high overdose rates, dramatic increases in suicidal ideation and a mental health workforce shortage are just some of the daunting challenges we face as a community.

But there is hope. And there is help. We can turn the tide by pushing for solutions that expand access to care, when and where people need it. Interested in supporting the National Council’s efforts to move lifesaving legislation across the finish line? Here are a few ways you can get started:

 Contact Your Elected Officials: Take two minutes to urge your elected officials to expand access to mental health and substance use care. No sign up is required.

 Become an Advocate: Sign up for our Advocacy Alerts to be notified of opportunities to contact your elected officials on key bills moving through Congress.

 Download Our Handbook: Access tips, tricks and templates for becoming a mental health and substance use treatment advocate in your community.

 Sign Up for Capitol Connector: Stay informed of breaking news related to federal mental health and substance use policy via our weekly newsletter.

Learn more about the National Council’s policy priorities and our work to ensure equitable access to high-quality care, build the capacity of mental health and substance use treatment organizations, and promote a greater understanding of mental wellbeing in communities across the country.