News
December 04, 2025
New NAMI Poll Shows Americans Want Congress to Act as Mental Health System Reaches Breaking Point
Nearly one in five rate their mental health as poor, and large majorities oppose federal cuts to services, housing, Medicaid, and suicide prevention.
**Americans Urge Congress to Act as Mental Health System Struggles, NAMI Poll Reveals**
Washington, D.C. – A new poll released by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) paints a stark picture of the mental health landscape in America, revealing widespread concern and a resounding call for congressional action. The survey highlights growing anxieties about access to care and strong opposition to potential federal budget cuts that could further strain the already overburdened system.
The poll’s findings underscore the urgency of the situation. Alarmingly, nearly one in five Americans report experiencing poor mental health, a statistic that underscores the pervasive nature of mental health challenges across the nation. This significant percentage reflects the impact of various factors, including economic pressures, social isolation, and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
Perhaps even more telling is the overwhelming public sentiment regarding federal funding for mental health services. Large majorities of those surveyed voiced their opposition to any cuts in vital areas such as mental health services, affordable housing, Medicaid, and suicide prevention programs. This strong stance suggests a deep understanding of the crucial role these resources play in supporting individuals and families struggling with mental illness.
The potential impact of budget cuts on these essential services is a major concern for NAMI and other mental health advocacy organizations. Reductions in funding could lead to longer wait times for treatment, decreased access to care, and increased rates of homelessness among individuals with mental illness. The poll clearly indicates that Americans recognize these risks and are unwilling to accept a weakening of the mental health safety net.
The poll results serve as a powerful message to Congress. NAMI is urging lawmakers to prioritize mental health and substance use care by investing in community-based services, expanding access to affordable treatment, and strengthening the mental health workforce. The organization believes that Congress must act now to address the growing mental health crisis and prevent further deterioration of the system. The poll serves as a timely reminder that mental health is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and robust support from policymakers.
Washington, D.C. – A new poll released by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) paints a stark picture of the mental health landscape in America, revealing widespread concern and a resounding call for congressional action. The survey highlights growing anxieties about access to care and strong opposition to potential federal budget cuts that could further strain the already overburdened system.
The poll’s findings underscore the urgency of the situation. Alarmingly, nearly one in five Americans report experiencing poor mental health, a statistic that underscores the pervasive nature of mental health challenges across the nation. This significant percentage reflects the impact of various factors, including economic pressures, social isolation, and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
Perhaps even more telling is the overwhelming public sentiment regarding federal funding for mental health services. Large majorities of those surveyed voiced their opposition to any cuts in vital areas such as mental health services, affordable housing, Medicaid, and suicide prevention programs. This strong stance suggests a deep understanding of the crucial role these resources play in supporting individuals and families struggling with mental illness.
The potential impact of budget cuts on these essential services is a major concern for NAMI and other mental health advocacy organizations. Reductions in funding could lead to longer wait times for treatment, decreased access to care, and increased rates of homelessness among individuals with mental illness. The poll clearly indicates that Americans recognize these risks and are unwilling to accept a weakening of the mental health safety net.
The poll results serve as a powerful message to Congress. NAMI is urging lawmakers to prioritize mental health and substance use care by investing in community-based services, expanding access to affordable treatment, and strengthening the mental health workforce. The organization believes that Congress must act now to address the growing mental health crisis and prevent further deterioration of the system. The poll serves as a timely reminder that mental health is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and robust support from policymakers.
Category:
Politics