As a constituent and pediatrician, I urge you to pass the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act before adjourning Congress for the year. This compromise legislation is necessary to improve the mental health of all Americans, especially children and adolescents.

While the need for mental health care and substance abuse treatment among children and adolescents is increasing, access to these services is decreasing, despite growing evidence that specific mental health and substance abuse treatments are particularly effective. An estimated 13 million children across the United States require such care, yet a substantial number of these children do not receive appropriate treatment. Children who receive timely and adequate access to these services often avoid costly treatment later in life. Mental health and substance abuse care positively impacts child behavior, brain development, parental health, and reductions in juvenile violence and detention.

Compromise legislation worked out between the House and Senate will ensure that children and adolescents receive the mental health care and substance abuse treatment they need and deserve. Families should not have to wait any longer for this important legislation to become law. Please pass the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act before Congress adjourns. Thank you for your commitment to the health and well-being of children.