Showing Support for Mental Health Care: Advocacy, Innovation, and Community

On February 26, 2025, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) voiced serious concerns following the U.S. House of Representatives’ advancement of a budget resolution that could significantly cut Medicaid funding. According to NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., these potential cuts pose a direct threat to millions of Americans, especially the one in three people with mental health conditions who rely on Medicaid for access to vital services like therapy, medication, and crisis care.

The proposed budget aims to slash at least $880 billion from programs under the jurisdiction of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, making it nearly impossible to avoid severe reductions in Medicaid coverage. Currently, more than 72 million people depend on Medicaid, including children, pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and working families. NAMI and its advocates have already sent over 57,000 messages to Congress, passionately urging lawmakers to safeguard Medicaid and reject any measures that would create new barriers to mental health care.

Closer to home, South Carolina is making strides in mental health support. In October 2023, the South Carolina Judicial Branch hosted a Statewide Mental Health Summit, led by Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty. The summit culminated in the creation of the S.C. Courts Mental Health Taskforce, set to implement statewide solutions in 2024. Chief Justice Beatty emphasized the importance of developing fair and timely court responses for individuals with serious mental illnesses, highlighting the judiciary’s role in fostering compassionate justice.

Individuals are stepping up to make a difference.

Jonny McCoy, Attorney of Counsel at The Floyd Law Firm, transformed his personal struggle with PTSD and addiction into a beacon of hope for others by founding WhiteFlag—a mental health peer support app. WhiteFlag offers users a safe, anonymous space to connect with peers facing similar challenges, fostering a community where people can both seek and offer support. Since its launch, the app has facilitated over two million message exchanges and has been recognized by Fast Company as one of their “World Changing Ideas.”

WhiteFlag’s impact extends to college campuses, where McCoy and his team are raising awareness about mental health and the power of peer support. McCoy’s heartfelt mission is clear:

“The worst part about mental illness is that the person who is essentially paralyzed by their mind is also the only person who can save them… WhiteFlag is the ladder that we are throwing back down the hole.”

Supporting mental health doesn’t always require grand gestures. Simple actions—like checking in on loved ones, practicing patience, and respecting boundaries—can make a significant impact. Remember to care for your own well-being, too. Whether through relaxation techniques, mindful breathing, or learning to say no to overwhelming commitments, prioritizing self-care helps build resilience.

At The Floyd Law Firm, we believe in the power of community and advocacy. By staying informed, supporting local initiatives, and fostering open conversations, we can contribute to a society where mental health is treated with the compassion and urgency it deserves. Together, we can help ensure that no one has to face their struggles alone.

If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, remember that help is available. Whether through professional services, community resources, or peer support networks like WhiteFlag, reaching out is the first step toward healing.