For Immediate Release
Contact: Rob Grant, Communications Director
202.966.7300, Ext. 119
rgrant@aacap.org
Caitlyn Camacho, Communications & Marketing Coordinator
202.966.7300, Ext. 154
ccamacho@aacap.org
Washington, D.C., May 7, 2012 - The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) will host more than 200 child and adolescent psychiatrists, mental health professionals, and families affected by mental illnesses for Advocacy Day on Friday, May 11, 2012 on Capitol Hill.
"The goal of AACAP's Advocacy Day is to improve children's mental health services and research opportunities for child and adolescent psychiatrists. There is no better way to advocate for these issues than to partner our experts with the families who face the challenges of mental illness every day. We are honored to share Advocacy Day with parents and youth affected by mental illness," said AACAP President Martin J. Drell, M.D.
AACAP members, families, and youth will meet with Members of Congress from 43 states to not only discuss children's mental health, but focus on the need for increased prevention and access to care. In addition, groups will discuss the impact of medication shortages on families.
One of Advocacy Day's main appeals to Congress is funding for a pediatric mental health loan repayment program to help address the severe shortage of child mental health professionals including child and adolescent psychiatrists.
AACAP advocates gather on Capitol Hill the same week as National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day, during which communities across the country host events, youth demonstrations, and social networking campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and increase understanding of the mental health needs of children and their families.
To learn more about AACAP's Advocacy Day or to speak with an expert, please contact Caitlyn Camacho, Communications Coordinator, at 202.966.7300, ext. 154 or ccamacho@aacap.org.
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Representing over 8,500 child and adolescent psychiatrists nationwide, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is the leading authority on children's mental health.
AACAP Members actively research, diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders affecting children, adolescents and their families. For more information please visit www.aacap.org.