In light of the tragic shooting in Newtown Connecticut, it's time we refocused our nation's attention -- and resources -- on treating mental illness.
We should not waste time debating whether mental health problems are the true cause of these tragedies or whether the availability of guns are to blame -- the truth is, both are responsible and we must address both.
Between 2009 and 2011, states cumulatively cut more than $1.8 billion from their budgets for mental health services. These come on top of decades of federal cuts dating back to the 1980s that have eviscerated our public support for mental health care treatment.
Until we restore funding and provide robust treatment and long-term care for those suffering from mental illness, we will witness events like Newtown again and again.