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Schwarzenegger cuts funding for mental health programs

By Staff Writer

Government-funded rehabilitation facilities can provide individuals with assistance for mental illnesses and help with relapse prevention. However, states that have large amounts of debt have been forced to consider cutting funding for these resources, including California.

Recently, California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger cut approximately $133 million in funding that goes to education-related mental health services, according to the Los Angeles Times. Families that depend on these services to aid children with conditions, such as schizophrenia, say they fear that they may lose control of their lives.

Individuals who rely on the services live in a number of counties, including Orange and Alameda, have been notified that these resources will be terminated in January.

Judy Powelson is one example of a mother with a child who suffers from a mental illness. She plans to issue a class-action lawsuit to prohibit the cutbacks and continue to provide care for her son. Powelson believes that if the resources are ended, her son will not be able to manage his condition on his own.

Approximately 26 percent of Americans suffer from a mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Rehabilitation programs can help individuals cope with their illness and live healthier lives.

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