By Kylie Yanes. The World Health Organization estimates that about one in four people around the world will be impacted by mental illness during their lifetimes. And yet, many of us are fearful to discuss or address our own mental health—despite how important it is to our health overall. It’s important that we work together to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health care and look out for one another so as to better identify problems and support our communities.
The criminal legal system significantly lacks mental health resources
By Jennifer Zarour. The United States criminal justice system significantly lacks adequate resources for seriously mentally ill (SMI) people in jails and prisons. In fact, nationwide psychiatric care for SMI individuals is nearly inaccessible—in 2023, there were only 10.8 state psychiatric hospital beds for every 100,000 Americans. To better address mental illness and protect SMI individuals and those around them, the U.S. criminal legal system has a responsibility to provide proper care and stop the vicious cycle of incarceration and hospitalization.
Legislatures considered a record number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills in 2023, driven by harmful misconceptions and misinformation
By Jennifer Zarour. In 2023, more than 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in state legislatures across the US., including in Arizona. Many of these bills target transgender and gender-diverse youth, and are often based on broad misconceptions about gender-affirming care.
Let your voice shake: The essential role of mandatory reporting
By Kylie Yanes. Mandatory reporters—people required by law to report possible abuse against children—include medical personnel and other health professionals, law enforcement officials, counselors, child welfare workers, pastors, parents, teachers, coaches, school personnel, babysitters, and any other person who has responsibility for the care or treatment of minors. We have a responsibility to make sure the kids in our community are safe.
How trauma-informed lawyering can empower victims of domestic violence to take back their power
By Carla Walters. Trauma—whether experienced directly in your personal life or indirectly through interactions with others—can have devastating effects on our bodies and minds. A client’s trauma experiences and related behavioral responses can make it difficult for lawyers to communicate with them, build trust, and engage the client in making decisions about their case. However, by implementing strategies of trauma-informed lawyering, attorneys can identify a client’s trauma and recognize how it may be manifesting in that client’s mindset and behavior.
Law Journal for Social Justice 