tal disorder is not expensive. Children only account for 7 percent of mental health expenditures. In 1996, an average of $984 was spent on the treatment of children with mental health problem. This averages out to $45 per child. The majority of this money is spent on inpatient services, followed by physician services, drugs, and emergency room visits. ConclusionIt is clear that mental health is as important as physical health. Poor mental health can have adverse affects on productivity and absenteeism in the workforce as well as prevent a person from leading a normal life. The Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 was a tremendous help in combating the inconsistencies of mental health benefits. However, many changes must still be made in order for there to be full parity. Further changes must happen at the federal level as well as the state level.In order for these changes to occur several things must be accomplished. The public and health care providers must be educated on mental illness. The stigma attached to mental illnesses must be overcome for the acceptance of mental illnesses as equal to that of physical illnesses. The proper classification and diagnosis of mental disorders must be developed and implement in order to effectively and successfully treat mental illnesses. And, finally, lawmakers must be willing to compromise on mental health issues without sacrificing the true intent of the laws…to serve and protect the rights of all people....
