Doctor's In: Common Ground Needed to Prevent Tragedies

I am very encouraged to see media outlets across the nation call for attention to deficiencies in our Mental Health System. Those of you that follow my blog know that recently I addressed my concerns for reopening Mental Hospitals and Reception centers and also (in a separate blog) gave my concerns for the need for gun regulation. I encourage you to read those blogs and I welcome comment.

My current concern, is how to find common ground among, gun control supporters, gun rights advocates, and promoters of a shored up mental health system. I say without hesitation that common ground and collaboration is essential as horrific incidents will continue.  Nobody wants continued repetition of murderous tragedies whatever your position on gun control.

I see the common ground with a ground swell support of mental health services. Gun issues are very polarizing concerns and each side will continue their own advocacy. However, there is an opportunity to stand together and demand from our political leadership direct action and funding to offer mental health services to anyone in need.

A comprehensive program identifying sociopathic, dangerous personalities and placing them in residential treatment would go a long way in reducing the risk for other Newtown-like tragedies.  Yes, I will continue to argue for reasonable gun control as stated in my published editorials in a number of print and online publications.  Many will comment against such legislation.  That is fine; that is the way it works in America.

My question is, can we find a common path and demand attention to a broken down Mental Health System where Florida is number 48 among the states for Mental Health funding and services?  I await your comments.