My life has been dedicated to educating the public about mental illness and helping the mentally ill. I believe the USA has the best health care available, but would be foolish not to recognize it is in great need of revisions. The connection between mental health care and 'politics' is vast. I consider myself first a patriot and second conservative. With regard to mental health issues ( many issues, in my opinion) I believe a partisan approach is counter-productive to movement in a positive direction. Issues with the stigma of mental health and general understanding would seem basic to some. But, until you yourself, a friend, or family member have to enter this maze, there would be little reason to realize the complexity of the challenges that face this area of illness and treatment.The association with the debilitating ability to work, criminal behavior, drugs, and the homeless are all directly connected to the overall economy of this Country. As with many illness', mental illness can be devastating to not only the afflicted person, but the entire family. There are treatment options and increasing research is taking place. The large number of returning Veterans with PTSD is a sad state of affairs, however this has placed more of an emphasis on the dire need for further awareness, research, and education. Mental illness is a major issue facing this Country.