APA Launches Campaign to 'Engage' Members in Mental Health Policy

Beginning today until Election Day, November 4, APA’s Department of Government Relations will be operating Engage 2014—a grassroots campaign encouraging members to advocate on behalf of the mental health community.

“Many members of the House and Senate are vigilant about tracking constituents’ views and incorporating those views into their decision-making,” said APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, M.D., M.P.A. “By taking advantage of this opportunity to educate lawmakers and raising awareness about our policy issues, we are increasing the chances that our voice will be heard.”

To get members involved in Engage 2014, APA is providing members with a list of opportunities in which they may interact with legislators. They include:

1. Town hall meetings in which a member of Congress is present
2. Political fundraisers
3. Meeting with a member of Congress at their district branch 
4. An electronic message or call to a representative’s office in Washington, D.C.
5. Contributions to APA’s Political Action Committee (APAPAC), a bipartisan political action committee that supports candidates for Congress who have demonstrated an understanding of and support for issues concerning mental health

APA will provide an up-to-date list of events specific to each participating member's local area, arrange meetings with members of Congress, and provide talking points, materials, and other tips in preparation for meetings with Congressional representatives.

Become engaged today by signing up at the Engage 2014 subscription site. For information on the grassroots initiative, visit Engage 2014.