NAMI Voices Concerns Over Executive Order Addressing Homelessness and Mental Illness
Alexandria, VA – July 25, 2025 – The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has issued a statement expressing significant concerns regarding a recently released Executive Order aimed at addressing homelessness, which NAMI believes may inadvertently lead to the criminalization of mental illness. The statement, published by PR Newswire Healthring, outlines NAMI’s perspective on the potential implications of the order.
NAMI, a leading mental health advocacy organization, acknowledges the urgent need to address the escalating crisis of homelessness, a significant portion of which is demonstrably linked to mental health conditions. However, the organization is troubled by aspects of the Executive Order that could be interpreted as prioritizing punitive measures over comprehensive, community-based support and treatment.
The statement highlights that while the intent of the order may be to improve the lives of those experiencing homelessness, its broad strokes could disproportionately impact individuals with severe mental illnesses. NAMI emphasizes that involuntary commitment and criminalization are not effective long-term solutions for managing mental health conditions and can, in fact, exacerbate existing challenges and create new barriers to recovery.
Instead, NAMI advocates for a robust investment in accessible and affordable mental healthcare services, including crisis intervention, supportive housing, assertive community treatment, and peer support. These evidence-based approaches are designed to address the root causes of mental health challenges and provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to stabilize their lives and achieve recovery within their communities.
“We understand the deep frustration and the desire for swift action when it comes to the complex issue of homelessness,” said [Insert Name and Title of NAMI Spokesperson, if available in the original article, otherwise use a general statement like “a NAMI spokesperson”]. “However, it is imperative that our solutions are rooted in compassion, evidence, and respect for the dignity of every individual. Criminalizing illness is never the answer; fostering recovery and providing unwavering support is.”
NAMI’s statement underscores the importance of a person-centered approach, one that recognizes the individuality of each person’s journey and the necessity of tailored support. The organization is calling for increased collaboration between government agencies, mental health providers, and community organizations to develop and implement strategies that prioritize prevention, early intervention, and sustainable support systems.
The alliance remains committed to working with policymakers to ensure that all initiatives addressing homelessness and mental illness are grounded in principles of recovery, human rights, and the well-being of those most vulnerable in our society. NAMI urges a careful review of the Executive Order’s implementation to safeguard against unintended consequences that could further marginalize individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
NAMI Statement on Executive Order Targeting Homelessness and Criminalizing Mental Illness
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