Funding for mental health interventions could get boost

Hope Grathwol had a full and vibrant life until, at age 19, she began to experience some of the symptoms of psychosis – visible hallucinations, paranoia, delusions and disordered speech. She eventually experienced a psychotic break that lead to a stay in the hospital.

“I stopped being able to keep myself safe,” Grathwol said.

But, as she told the House Behavioral Health Policy Division Wednesday, the mental health help Grathwol received began a recovery that saw her return to the University of Minnesota and graduate. She now lives independently and supports herself.

“I have meaningful relationships and enjoy the whirlwind of adult life,” Grathwol said. “This would not have been possible without the cohesive and comprehensive treatment that provided early intervention with long-term treatment.”

Division members voted 11-0 to approve HF1929, as amended, that would, in part, appropriate a yet-to-be-determined amount of money from the General Fund in fiscal year 2023 for mental health grants, which could be used to provide intensive treatment and support for adolescents or adults experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, a first psychotic episode. Funds could also be used to raise public awareness, train mental health and health care professionals, and for access to services, housing or travel experiences for those who have a first psychotic episode.

Sponsored by Rep. Kristin Bahner (DFL-Maple Grove), the bill was referred to the House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee. The companion, SF933, is sponsored by Sen. Carla Nelson (R-Rochester) and awaits action by the Senate Human Services Reform Finance and Policy Committee.

Rep. Kristin Bahner

Psychosis can be caused by drugs or alcohol but is also a symptom of mental illness, which often begins when someone is in their late teens to mid-20s, according to the Department of Human Services. It is estimated that three of every 100 people will experience psychosis at some point in their lives, but early treatment is important.

“Psychosis is a disabling condition that disrupts thoughts and can make reality hard to grasp and can cause people to pull away from family and friends,” Bahner told the division. “… This often leads to delayed calls for help, by as long as 74 weeks, on average, only to face a waitlist – far too little and far too late.”

She said the four progams in Minnesota that treat psychosis are “overflowing” with waitlists.

While division members voiced support for Bahner’s bill, several raised concerns that specific dollar amounts to fund the work are not yet included and that ongoing funding is necessary rather than a one-time expenditure.

“We know there’s a need … my concern is, once again, we get [these programs] started but we’re not investing properly,” said Rep. Keith Franke (R-St. Paul Park). “… I think nailing that down going forward would be beneficial [to the bill and] to the state as a whole.”

Bahner said work on the bill will continue and she hopes to have specific appropriations available as the bill works its way through the committee process.

“We do know these programs have substantial ability to help stave off costs down the road and create better outcomes for the individual, we will fill in the blank,” she said. “I think there’s real potential for us to make a difference with this.”