Saving Lives Through Increased Support for Mental- and Behavioral-Health Needs
Oct 8, 2020
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Oct 3, 2020
Published on: Oct 8, 2020
Oct 8, 2020
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Oct 3, 2020
Published on: Oct 8, 2020
Summary
Creates a group to improve government help for mental health problems made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What problem does this solve?
The COVID-19 pandemic and long lockdowns made mental health and drug use problems much worse for many people. This order sets up a special team to bring together government help and guide money to programs that support people with these issues.
What does this order do?
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Establishment of a coronavirus mental health working group
Establishes the Coronavirus Mental Health Working Group
Creates a new group, co-chaired by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to lead a government-wide response to mental health issues caused or worsened by the pandemic.
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Responsibilities of the coronavirus mental health working group
Requires a plan for improved mental health services
Tasks the new Working Group with creating and submitting a report to the President within 45 days that outlines a plan to better coordinate services for people in crisis.
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Grant funding for states and organizations that permit in-person treatment
Prioritizes funding for in-person support
Directs federal agencies to encourage grant recipients to adopt policies that allow for safe, in-person support groups, therapy, and community activities.
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Responsibilities of the coronavirus mental health working group
Focuses on vulnerable populations
Requires the Working Group to consider the specific mental health needs of groups heavily affected by the pandemic, including minorities, seniors, veterans, children, and small business owners.
Increases access to telehealth and online tools
Calls for making telehealth, online mental health tools, and substance use services more widely available to the public.
Who does this affect?
- People with mental health or substance use disorders
- Vulnerable populations (seniors, children, minorities)
- Veterans
What is the real world impact?
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Addresses a growing mental health crisis
Provides a coordinated federal response to the rise in mental health and substance abuse issues, which were made worse by the stress and isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Promotes in-person activities
Encourages funding for organizations that allow safe, in-person support groups, therapy, and attendance at community and religious services, which were limited during lockdowns.
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Criticizes state and local lockdown orders
Directly links poor mental health outcomes to 'prolonged State and local COVID-19 shutdown orders,' suggesting that these policies were harmful and should be reconsidered.
When does this start?
This order takes effect immediately, with a specific deadline for the new working group to deliver a report.
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Responsibilities of the coronavirus mental health working group
Working Group Report Deadline
The Coronavirus Mental Health Working Group must submit its report and plan for improved services to the President by November 17, 2020.