Mental Health & Addiction Advocacy Coalition

Programs: Research and education - the mhac uses proactive and reactive strategies to educate and increase awareness regarding mental health and addiction issues and their impact on the community, which helps policymakers understand the barriers to services and decreases the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and addiction disorders. Advocacy - the mhac also advocates for efficiencies and increased access to treatment and support, maintaining communications with public officials to inform them about the importance of mental health and alcohol and drug addiction services, and advocates for legislative and policy changes. Its work impacts the lives of the more than 2. 3 million ohioans who have a mental illness, including the 464,000 adults who have a severe mental illness. The mhac also positively affects the lives of 238,000 ohioans who abuse or are dependent on an illicit drug and the 629,000 ohioans who abuse or are dependent on alcohol (national survey on drug use and health, 2011-2012). Increasing organizational effectiveness - the mhac provides the following services to its member organizations throughout the state:- convening meetings with stakeholders and key public officials, including hosting annual regional public official receptions- providing policy analysis, educational materials, and training opportunities. The mhac regularly provides its members with timely information and resources they can use to advocate with public officials and educate stakeholders regarding relevant legislation, funding, and services. Members represent a diverse set of community organizations that are interested in mental health and addiction issues, including health care providers, major medical institutions, for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, advocacy organizations, and government agencies. - educating member organizations on issues of importance to the behavorial health community.