We can do Better!

This past week on the national news I viewed 2 stories where a young child was involuntarily committed to the hospital because school staff called in the police when the child, who has diagnosed issues, had a complete melt down including throwing furniture. Her mother was not able to gain release for 48 hours as the Baker law was in place!

Today I saw another case where a mom drove her 16 year old to the ER for emergency mental health crisis. On the video, he did push her, but the reaction of the officers was violent and extreme. He is seen on video being punched in the face while handcuffed. This was the reaction of the officer after 16 year old spit at him. Yes, no one wants to be spit on, but t is not OK to physically attack a 16 year old in a mental health crisis while he is handcuffed.

Our mission at GBY3 Foundation is to remove the stigma and raise awareness by educating the public. I felt I had to speak on these 2 cases as I find it very disturbing. As the mother of a mental health patient who lost his battle in 2018, I have seen and experienced both ends of the spectrum when it comes to treatment and care. Sometimes George was so respected and cared for with KINDNESS. Other times he was treated rudely and made to feel less than human.

As a society we can not stand by and allow this. No one chooses to be mentally ill…

It’s OK to not be OK

Lisa YeagerFebruary 16, 2020

My name is Lisa Yeager, I am George’s mom and the founder of GBY3 Foundation. George’s life was an amazing adventure that became a wild roller coaster ride due to mental illness. Our family attempted to educate ourselves as much as possible in order to help and support George in his struggles. In the 18 months since his passing while grieving and planning this foundation, the one thing that stands out more than anything is the need for education among students and erasing the stigma that surrounds mental health issues. Young people need to know it is OK to ask for someone to talk to. Adults need to listen with empathy and understanding. Looking to end your life is not a solution to any problem, neither is hurting yourself. My hope is to begin a nationwide conversation that puts our young people at ease with their social emotional health and encourages them to explore resources including counseling, therapy, self help, physicians and music and art therapy as well as yoga and meditation for self care.

In years to come we hope to influence change in the healthcare system for mental health patients to meet their needs in all health arenas and help prevent homelessness. The entire health and well being of the patient must be addressed and not dictated by lack of insurance or inconsistencies in government systems and health institutions.

It’s OK to not be OK…