#United States #Arlington #NAMI #Homelessness #Mental Illness

NAMI's Statement on Recent Executive Order Addressing Homelessness

On July 25, 2025, the White House unveiled a controversial Executive Order titled "Ending Crime and Disorder on America's Streets." This order requests federal agencies to simplify the process for involuntarily treating individuals suffering from severe mental illnesses, a move that is intended to combat the crippling issue of homelessness in the United States. However, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has voiced significant concerns regarding the implications of this directive.

NAMI's Chief Executive Officer, Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., affirmed that "Mental illness is not a crime, and those affected deserve to be treated with respect and dignity." He acknowledged the pressing nature of the homelessness crisis but insisted that effective solutions lie in enhancing access to mental health care and fostering supportive housing, rather than relying on institutionalization.

Focus on Coercion Rather than Compassion

The executive order's broad push towards involuntary treatment alarmingly shifts focus away from seeking voluntary engagement in mental health care. This approach raises concerns about a potential increase in coercive methods rather than prioritizing compassionate care that promotes recovery and reintegration into society.

Gillison emphasized that while there are instances where involuntary treatment may be necessary, it should only be a last resort, implemented with consideration for the individual's best interests. This sentiment is echoed by NAMI supporters, who argue that the solutions to homelessness and mental illness are far more complex than the proposals outlined in the executive order.

Risks of Misguided Solutions

The order also signals a move away from the "housing first" methodology, a strategy credited with effectively reducing homelessness by enabling individuals to access treatment services while living in stable homes. NAMI believes that neglecting this approach poses a significant risk of exacerbating the ongoing crisis, as it does not directly tackle the underlying causes of mental illness and homelessness.

With the current political climate leading to cuts in mental health services, the consequences of such an executive order become even more dire. Recent congressional legislation aimed at reducing Medicaid and SNAP benefits is likely to lead to further declines in mental health support. NAMI has pointed out that disbanding more than $1 billion in grants from SAMHSA will leave many vulnerable individuals without access to necessary care, resulting in higher incarceration rates and a greater likelihood of becoming homeless.

A Call for Holistic Solutions

NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer, Hannah Wesolowski, reiterated the importance of addressing mental health needs with respect and appropriate access to services. The directive appears to favor coercive tactics that prioritize removing homeless individuals from public view rather than offering them the vital support they need. With the longstanding challenges in mental health and homelessness, NAMI urges for solutions that focus on understanding and addressing root causes.

This statement aligns with the ongoing efforts by NAMI to advocate for public policies that emphasize the importance of mental health treatment accessibility and support systems. Community engagement, compassionate care, and responsive services must take precedence if the nation seeks to rectify the severe issues of homelessness and mental health crises.

For further information about NAMI’s advocacy work and the policies they support, visit nami.org/advocacy.