NAMI-NYS Releases Statement on the Arizona Tragedy

Date: January 11, 2011
For Further Information Contact:
Sherry Grenz, President
NAMI-NYS
518 462-2000

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. There are 56 affiliates across New York State.

NAMI-NYS President Sherry Grenz states: "It is with profound sadness that NAMI has followed the tragedy in Arizona. U.S. Representative Giffords has worked closely with our Arizona State NAMI and has long supported our mission of education, support and advocacy. We pray for a complete recovery for her and the 13 other people who were wounded. We extend our most heartfelt sympathies to the families of the six people who have died."

"Although according to the U.S. Surgeon General", Ms. Grenz continues, "violence in those diagnosed with mental illness is quite low, incidents like this point out the necessity of an accurate diagnosis, community support services, effective supervision, family and community education, proper medications, safe and affordable housing, and mental health and substance abuse coordination by professionals."

Ms. Grenz goes on to say that "it is especially important to recognize the critical need for these supports and services in this time of budget cuts; we do not want another senseless tragedy to drive this message home yet again."