Michael Streppa Affirms Need to De-Stigmatize Mental Illness

NEW YORK, NY, July 02, 2012

Huffington Post has reported that the White House has announced its intention to shift the focus away from the war on drugs and toward the treatment of addiction as a disease. While this announcement was well received by members of the healthcare industry, it is not one that has shown immediate results. Dr. Michael Streppa and other healthcare professionals are calling for more action to be taken regarding the de-stigmatization of mental illness.

According to the article, a large number of substance abuse cases are rooted in self-medication of mental illnesses. Depression, personality disorders, and anxiety are among those illnesses believed to be the underlying causes of numerous addictions. Many healthcare professionals believe that efforts should be targeted toward treating mental illness rather than substance abuse, which is often just one symptom of the aforementioned psychological issues.

David Sack, author of the article, writes: "Since we've recognized that addiction is a chronic disease similar to heart disease and diabetes, now it's time to start treating it that way. People need access to long-term treatment, even if they cannot pay for it themselves, and to be treated with compassion and respect rather than blame. We do not punish people who have a second heart attack by denying treatment; why do we punish those who relapse with an addiction by denying further treatment?"

Dr. Streppa believes that the power to create real change lies in voting. He is calling on voters to use their power to influence policy and funding, as well as to educate themselves and others about this issue.

"Mental illness is often the underlying cause of addiction," commented Dr. Michael Streppa, "yet the stigma of addiction as a moral flaw or simply the result of poor impulse control leaves this vulnerable population all too often caught up in the legal system rather than the healthcare system. We still have a long way to go toward de-stigmatizing mental illness and addiction in this country before those suffering from these debilitating illnesses have the same access to care as those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic disease. As voters, we have the power to influence the direction of policy and funding if we will take the time to educate ourselves and advocate for real parity."

Dr. Streppa hopes that, through articles such as the one written by Sack, people will become more aware of the importance of de-stigmatizing mental illness.

ABOUT:

Dr. Michael Streppa is a psychological professional who has worked in several positions within the industry. A well-educated individual, Michael Streppa has earned a Doctor of Psychology, Master of Arts, and Bachelor of Arts. Throughout his studies, he focused on the field of psychology and, during his graduate years, the specific area of clinical psychology. Dr. Streppa has worked as an independent contractor, Chief Psychologist, Staff Psychologist, Sole Proprietor of a private practice, and Mental Health Specialist.

Website: http://michaelstreppa.com