A new national poll commissioned by the Schizophrenia Policy Action Network shows broad, bipartisan support for improving care for people living with serious mental illness, including schizophrenia and other psychosis spectrum disorders.
Voters across the political spectrum believe mental illness is an important national issue, and they want policymakers to make care for serious mental illness a priority. The poll shows strong support for better access to treatment, stronger insurance coverage, increased federal investment, and policies that help people get care before they reach a crisis.
Rate mental illness as an important issue
Rate access to mental health services positively
Support increasing federal funding for health programs for serious mental illness
Would be more likely to vote for a candidate who makes mental health care a top priority
Support for increased federal funding crossed party lines, including 84% of Republican respondents.
The findings point to several clear priorities for Congress: make treatment easier to access, ensure mental health care is covered fairly, invest in services for serious mental illness, and address the gaps that leave too many people without support until a crisis occurs.
93% believe mental health care should be covered similarly to physical health care.
85% believe Medicare and Medicaid should cover schizophrenia and other psychosis spectrum disorder treatments the same as cancer treatments.
75% say the federal government spends too little on serious mental illness services, and 85% support legislation to significantly increase funding.
Cost, inadequate insurance coverage, and limited access remain major barriers to treatment before a crisis occurs.
The poll reinforces what families and advocates have long known: people living with serious mental illness need earlier access to treatment, fair coverage, and a care system designed to support recovery, stability, and dignity.
Voters are not divided on the need for action. They want policymakers to strengthen coverage, expand access, and invest in care that helps people before they reach a crisis point.
Download the full materials to learn more about voter attitudes, policy priorities, and the growing public demand for improved care for serious mental illness.
Information on this website is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Copyright © 2024, Schizophrenia Policy Action Network (SPAN). All Rights Reserved.
IRS Application pending 501(c)(4) tax-exempt non-profit organization (Tax ID 99-2673665).
Information on this website is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Copyright © 2024, Schizophrenia Policy Action Network (SPAN). All Rights Reserved.
IRS Application pending 501(c)(4) tax-exempt non-profit organization (Tax ID 99-2673665).
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