Advocacy & Action
“Nothing About Us, Without Us”
The Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Network of Minnesota is a grassroots membership-based organization of consumers/survivors of mental health services. All of CSN’s advocacy work is by and for people who have personal experiences with psychiatric disorders and the mental health care system.
Through our advocacy work we strive to build a healthcare system that:
- Combats the stigmatization of those with mental health issues.
- Offers quality services accessible to all, regardless of income and county of residence.
- Is culturally appropriate to the needs of diverse populations.
- Respects the contributions of people who themselves have experienced mental health issues.
- Integrates a model of recovery into all treatments.
CSN began organizing and advocacy work in order to combat the stigma frequently associated with psychiatric labels. The advocacy work that we have done so far has not only helped ensure a meaningful legislative victory — the Certified Peer Specialist Law — but it has also changed the level of engagement in politics.
A recent survey of CSN active members provided a snapshot of an engaged and excited base of members:
- 43% attended Mental Health Day on the Hill
- 46% have participated on their local mental health advisory group
- 52% have met with their elected officials
- 84% are aware of the Americans with Disabilities Act and 74% feel their rights are protected under the ADA
- 94% of respondents believe that the CSN has helped to reduce the stigma of those with mental illness
During the 2007 Minnesota Legislative session, CSN’s first sponsored legislation was introduced and passed. The Mental Health Certified Peer Specialist Bill recognizes the value of peer specialists within the mental health field and provides a way to ensure that peer specialists obtain training and credentials to offer reimbursable services.
CSN is a member of the Mental Health Legislative Network. We devote significant effort to direct public advocacy and indirect challenging of the pervasive discrimination present in health care services, popular culture, and within our own communities. CSN is also involved on the national level, working with other Consumer Organizations across the country to:
- Protect the rights of consumers in the workplace, healthcare system and elsewhere in their daily lives.
- Ensure fair and accurate representations of mental illness in order to combat legislation based on damaging misconceptions.
- Increase funding and investment in peer-led and recovery based treatment options for those with mental illness.