Bilirakis Hosts Conversation about Mental Health/Substance Abuse Issues, Featuring Special Guest Rep. Tim Murphy

Washington, D.C. – Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), member of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, is honored to host a conversation about Mental Health and Substance Abuse issues, featuring Representative Tim Murphy, clinical psychologist and author of the bipartisan H.R. 3717, Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act. The goal of this event is to facilitate dialogue among health care professionals, policymakers, and family members of those struggling with these problems. We will discuss the needs that exist within our community, and the steps that can be taken to improve access to quality treatments.

"Our solution-oriented discussion will focus on how to fix a broken system and ensure better outcomes. One important aspect of this conversation is the treatment options available to our nation's Veterans as they grapple with Post Traumatic Stress and other invisible wounds. One size does not fit all, especially when it comes to an issue as sensitive as mental health," Bilirakis said. "I am honored to have Representative Murphy joining me – he is the undisputed leader in Congress on this issue. The good work he is doing will undoubtedly offer substantial improvements in the way this important issue is viewed and the treatment options available to those with mental illness."

"I thank Representative Bilirakis for taking up this legislative cause and for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with me to help those who, for far too long, have been in the shadows of ignorance and despair. We will continue working to bring them into that bright light of hope, and it starts with the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act," Representative Murphy said.

The event is open to the public and the media.

When: December 16, 2014, starting at 1:00 pm

Where: Rasmussen College, 18600 Fernview St. Land O' Lakes, FL 34638, Rooms 102 and 103.

Media RSVP: Ian Martorana (Representative Bilirakis): Ian.Martorana@mail.house.gov or 202 225 5755

Brad Grantz (Representative Murphy): Brad.Grantz@mail.house.gov or 202 225 2301