The Mental Health System is Broken. Let’s

unbreak it logo

This is a website for people with mental health issues in Connecticut.


It is for you. Not your therapists, your providers, or even your families. We are building an advocacy platform based on what you say should be changed.


When you sought mental health help or went to the emergency room, what happened?


What was messed up?


What did you wish was different?


Tell us. Our "SPEAK OUT" and "COMMENT" sections are anonymous. They will identify your county of residence only. Let’s tell others what it’s really like to try to get help. And fight for the changes to fix it.

Let's Get Started

I created this site because I believe people with mental health issues should have an independent political voice. My purpose is to create a platform for that voice.


A system that fails to provide adequate mental health care is unfair to patients, their families, and the community. I believe that if we organize, we can become a powerful force. 


 We deserve effective, timely care. Let’s call for it.


Deborah Straszheim, LCSW

FAQ

  • Why did you start this organization?

    To create a platform for people seeking or receiving mental health care so their voices are heard. Our goal is to organize a unified effort to fight for change. When a system is broken, you ask an expert. The people dealing with this system are the experts. They know best what’s wrong and needs fixing because they’re living it.

  • Are you a nonprofit or will you be applying for nonprofit status?

    We will be applying for 501(c)(4) status as a not-for-profit social welfare organization. This is different than 501(c)(3) status, which limits the political activity of the receiving organization. We chose this status because a substantial part of our future activities will involve calling for legislative change to improve the mental health system.

  • A nonprofit needs a board. Who will serve on your board?

    Connecticut residents who are receiving mental health care, seeking it, or who have received it in the past may serve on our board. Board members must be willing to be publicly identified to serve.

  • What will you do with the “Speak Out” answers?

    We will publish total results by theme, such as the number of people who cited topics such as provider attitudes, availability of care, etc. as issues. This will help give voice to what the real issues are through the eyes of people who use the mental health system.

  • Is the list of people who join public? I may not want to be identified.

    Our member lists are not public. 

  • May I make an anonymous comment about mental health on this platform?

    Yes! Click on the "comment" button, write a comment and click "submit."

  • I am not seeking or receiving mental health care in Connecticut. Can I still support this initiative?

    Yes! Select JOIN US and choose “I am a friend and supporter of change.” Help us spread the word about this effort!

“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” 


-The Dalai Lama