“Treating children at home whenever possible,” said Patrick Gardner, an attorney with Young Minds Advocacy Project, “is more humane, less costly, and more effective than institutionalization.” Under the agreement the state will establish a new program and approach for delivering mental health services called Wraparound with Intensive Services or “WISe.”
The program will help prevent adverse outcomes for youth with serious mental illness such as hospitalization, long-term institutionalization in psychiatric facilities, and placements in the foster care and juvenile justice systems.
These are all experiences Smith has known personally and doesn’t want repeated for other kids. “This case,” says Smith, “was about doing something to make a difference so kids with illnesses like mine won’t have to go through the things I did.”
Leecia Welch, Senior Attorney at the National Center for Youth Law, agrees. “Approval of this settlement has set the stage for increasing access to appropriate mental health services for Washington’s most vulnerable youth. Better access to care means better outcomes for kids like Phillip.”
Roger Holt on 01 Aug 13Teens and young adults who suffer from mental illness can feel hopeless and alone. Many don't know what's wrong with them but feel like it's their fault. Those who understand what is happening fear they can't be helped. Because of the stigma attached to mental illness, it's often hard for those suffering and their families and friends to talk about what they're going through. But help is available, and it works. The goal of OK2TALK is to create a community for teens and young adults struggling with mental health problems and encourage them to talk about what they're experiencing by sharing their personal stories of recovery, tragedy, struggle or hope. Anyone can add their voice by sharing creative content such as poetry, inspirational quotes, photos, videos, song lyrics and messages of support in a safe, moderated space. We hope this is the first step towards getting help and feeling better.
