IL SR0912

One in five U.S. adults and one in six youth aged 6-17 experience mental illness annually, yet only 47.2% of adults and 50.6% of youth receive treatment.

Establishes a Mental Health Bill of Rights affirming that all Illinoisans regardless of age, zip code, socioeconomic status, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, race, or ethnicity have the right to mental health education, dignified treatment, and stigma-free help-seeking.

Guarantees rights to informed consent, voluntary services, privacy, family support, and access to culturally competent, evidence-based care in the least restrictive setting.

Commits Illinois to providing comprehensive services including crisis intervention, peer support, accurate diagnosis, affordable medication, interpretation services, and coordinated care across providers and state agencies.

Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month (observed in May since 1949) and endorses these principles as Illinois' commitment to expanding access to mental health diagnosis and treatment for all families.