SC’s Lesson from CT: Address Mental Illness

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — The amount of sadness and grief is hard to quantify for those in Connecticut and here at home. However, experts say the reported root cause of the tragedy, mental illness, isn’t going away anytime soon. One in five children has a mental health need that could be diagnosed and/or treated. But all too often, that doesn’t happen in South Carolina. Diane Flashnick, Executive Director for the Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health of South Carolina, says there are lessons the Midlands can learn from Newtown in dealing with mental illness. “It’s sad we have to experience such a tragedy for people top take notice,” says Flashnick. “Only about 25% of children who are identified with mental health issues even get treatment. While the Connecticut school shooter’s mental illness is being blamed, incidents like the attack are rare. “The average individual with mental illness is not going to act out violently.” But for Midlands parents who do struggle with their children’s state of mind, she offers advice. “If a parent reaches where their child is not making process and gets to an age or size they can no longer manage, they need to find assistance elsewhere.” Governor Nikki Haley agrees. “It doesn’t take a Connecticut for me to know people out there need treatment, and I will do what I can to make sure we’re protected in that way.” While the governor pledges to address the issue, over the last several years, the state’s budget for mental health issues has been cut, now by some 40%, according to Diane Flashnick. For more information on mental illness resources, contact the Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health of South Carolina at 1-866-779-0402 or 803-772-5210 or www.fedfamsc.org.