Better mental health services are needed

We will never know if the tragedy in Arizona could have been prevented with proper intervention, but those of us who have dealt with family members who suffer from mental illness know all too well how "chasing and powerless" dealing with mental illness can be ["Chasing mental illness - and feeling helpless," Opinion, Jan. 18].

It feels powerless not only because it is impossible to force someone into treatment, but because there are limited treatments available due to insurance and physician restrictions. Additionally, many of those who suffer from mental illness do not have any health insurance.

Until help is readily and easily available for those who suffer and their families, the problems of the mentally ill will continue to affect us all.

Adrienne McKenna

Franklin Square