Psychiatrists Call for RFK Jr. to be Replaced as Health Secretary
Psychiatry organizations are calling for the removal of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing concerns over his actions increasing stigma, instilling fear, and hindering access to mental health and addiction care. These groups, including the Southern California Psychiatry Society and the Committee to Protect Public Mental Health, are alarmed by the Health Secretary’s attacks on psychiatric medications and his efforts to dismantle the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administrations (SAMHSA). Experts worry that these actions, along with potential cuts to Medicaid, will compromise access to critical mental health services, ultimately leading to a “rolling crisis.” The organizations are urging lawmakers to replace Kennedy with a leader with expertise in public health and evidence-based care.
John Q. Hosedrinker