As a psychology student at Western Governors University (WGU), I have come to understand that lasting and meaningful change begins with supporting the dedicated individuals who care for others. The newly introduced 'Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets' Executive Order offers a glimmer of hope for those in need, but without adequate numbers of trained mental health professionals, this initiative cannot reach its full potential.

Our nation is facing a mental health crisis.

Millions of Americans require mental health services, yet there is a significant shortage of professionals to provide the necessary care.

In 2020, the National Institute of Mental Health reported that nearly one in five adults in the U.S. was living with a mental illness, equating to 52.9 million people. Despite this staggering number, the Health Resources and Services Administration projects a shortage of over 250,000 professionals by 2025. This shortage will severely limit access to critical mental health services, exacerbating already dire conditions.

The recent Executive Order aims to make America’s streets safer by addressing underlying mental health issues that contribute to crime and disorder. However, achieving this goal requires substantial investment in our mental health workforce. We must prioritize funding and create incentives for students and professionals entering the field.

A Mental Health Workforce Incentive Program can be the solution. By providing scholarships, loan forgiveness, and competitive salaries, we can attract and retain the talent necessary to staff new facilities and offer quality care to those in need. This program could also include student loan repayment options and tax incentives for clinicians who choose to work in underserved communities, ensuring that help reaches the areas that need it most.

We call on President Donald J. Trump, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. Department of Education to take decisive action.

We urge them to initiate a Mental Health Workforce Incentive Program that aligns with the goals of the Executive Order, ensuring it becomes a humane and effective measure. Investing in those who heal can create real and lasting change for our communities.

Join us in making this vision a reality.

Sign this petition to demand a commitment to mental health care that lives up to its promise.

Together, we can transform policy into compassionate action and foster healing for all who need it.

Please add your voice to ours in calling for this critical program.