Tuscon Shooting: Headlines May End, But Issues Remain

The shock, debate and even resignation surrounding the Arizona shooting have largely passed from the headlines. But for many in the mental health field, the “Tucson Tragedy” is part of a long-running drama that will remain.

Most now agree the flurry of finger pointing and political argument did little to help. Unfortunately, labels such as “schizophrenia” or “bipolar disorder” explained little, either. Such quick diagnoses are misleading for the individual and often result confused goals for the mental health field. At a time when budgets are stretched as never before, false starts are, among other things, unaffordable.

Another direction that seems especially troubling is the idea that the suspect’s parents are to blame. Although his parents may have known something was very wrong with their son, it’s not obvious what they could have done—legally, physically or otherwise. It’s difficult, even impossible, to get an unwilling adult into treatment—assuming treatment is available and affordable. To these hurdles add the fear of having your son or daughter labeled “crazy” for the rest of his or her life. Not surprisingly, the vast majority of parents simple hope it will pass.

That brings up two things we can address from this tragedy: making sure that help is available and reducing the stigma that attends seeking help. Though not dramatic, these steps would do more than anything to help others in the position of these parents, including the vast majority of those with a mental illness who are not violent.

There are humane reasons to do this, especially in a nation that prides itself on a Judeo-Christian foundation. There are also issues of equality when mental health care coverage—or the lack of it—is compared to other health care coverage. But after Tucson, we can see another reason. It’s easier, more cost effective and can help avoid tragedy by treating people in advance. It’s the smart thing to do.

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