How To "Vote Mental Health"

NAMI members often ask, "How do I 'vote mental health'? What questions should I ask? How do I know where a candidate stands on issues that affect people who live with mental illness?" Try our tips to raise questions, get answers and make informed choices.

1. Know our issues. Understanding issues that affect children and adults who live with mental illness is an important first step to "voting mental health." Read NAMI's State Action Agenda for a concise summary of issues that make a difference.
   
   
2. Ask questions. The best way to elicit thoughtful and candid answers from candidates is to ask unbiased, open-ended questions. Try NAMI's Candidate Questions.
   
   
3. Stay informed. Check candidate websites for positions on relevant issues, such as housing and funding of public services. Listen to speeches. Track local and internet forums for opportunities to hear candidates and ask questions.
   
   
4. Educate candidates. An excellent way to learn about candidates is by providing them with NAMI's information and offering to serve as a resource on mental health issues. Let your state NAMI office know of your plans.
   
   
5. Be prepared. Any time a pollster, political party or campaign calls or knocks on your door, emphasize your concern for mental health care issues.
   
   
6. Spread the word. Your family, friends and co-workers care about what you have to say. Let them know that you will "vote mental health."
   
   
7. Write a letter. Candidates pay close attention to letters to the editor and comments on newspaper blogs because they reflect the pulse of voters.
   
   
8. Volunteer. Anyone can volunteer as an individual to work on a campaign. People who donate time are valued—and so are their opinions.
   
   
9. Wear your issue. Wear a "Mental Health Care Gets My Vote!" sticker on your shirt, bag or car. This will grab the attention of candidates—and raise public awareness. Download artwork from www.nami.org/election and order through a local or national printer.
   
   
10. Vote. One of the most important ways you can make a difference is to exercise your right to vote. Don't forget to register to vote by the deadline set in your state.
    

NAMI Advocates: Why I Vote Mental Health

What's at Stake:
Why Elections Matter

With the 2010 elections just around the corner, it is time, more than ever, for Americans to be heard by our nation’s leaders--and it is time to show that mental health care gets your vote.

Mental health care issues are front and center for the millions of Americans living with mental illness and their families. With your help, candidates will become aware that mental health care is an issue that resonates with a large segment of our country’s voters. By writing, calling, visiting and voting, you can help change how candidates think and talk about mental health care.

Speak up for mental health care and let campaigns know that your life is affected by mental illness. Ask candidates how they will change how our country treats people with mental illness. You can make a difference.

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