Klinker recognized for lifelong advocacy for mental health support

LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Indiana State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) was recently recognized for her "lifelong advocacy for mental health support" by the Mental Health America-Wabash Valley Region Inc.

Serving as a state legislator across five decades, Klinker "has worked tirelessly to expand assistance for those who are mentally ill or developmentally disabled, according to the announcement. The award was presented by Brandi Christiansen, president of the Mental Health America-Wabash Valley Region Inc.

As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, Klinker, first elected in 1982, has been at the forefront of crafting legislation advocating for funding services that support individuals with mental illness.

In 2018, Klinker co-authored HB 1141 that specified that counties must provide funding to community mental health centers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Klinker drew attention to the impact the pandemic was having on mental health, especially on younger Americans.

“I’m very humbled to have been selected for this award,” Klinker said in the release. “Indiana, in fact the United States as a whole, has had a long, questionable history with the awareness of mental illness. For too long, we stigmatized mental health and even refused to acknowledge that mental illness existed. Many Americans suffer from mental illness.

"By raising awareness and erasing the stigma, we can get individuals who are struggling the support they need. Mental Health America- Wabash Valley Region and Brandi Christiansen have been committed to fulfilling that vision in Lafayette. I’m honored to have been presented this award, and I will continue to advocate for mental health in the upcoming 2024 legislative session.”

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Klinker recognized for lifelong advocacy for mental health support