Story Published:
Apr 23, 2008 at 1:53 AM EST
Story Updated:
Apr 23, 2008 at 5:08 PM EST
The tragic shooting last Wednesday on the campus of Roosevelt High School has raised concerns over how to deal with people diagnosed with mental illness. The family of Jesus 'Jesse' Carrizales said he was taking both anti-depressants and anti-psychotic medications. The 17-year-old was shot and killed by a Fresno police officer assigned to the school when police say Carrizales attacked him with a baseball bat. Tuesday morning, Fresno mayor Alan Autry addressed steps to prevent another incident like the one at Roosevelt.
Kristen Martinez, co-director of Fresno's NAMI, the national alliance on mental illness said it's unfortunate a tragedy of this magnitude is now calling attention to the issue of mental illness.
"Early prevention is so important," said Martinez.
Martinez is no stranger to mental illness. Her 8-year-old daughter is diagnosed as bi-polar. NAMI is a non-profit group offering support and resourced to families dealing with mental illness. She said Tuesday's announcement by Mayor Alan Autry, a six-pronged approach to deal with mental illness is a step in the right direction. Martinez said awareness is key. She believes mental illnesses are under diagnosed, not only by doctors, but the community.
"We as a community are going to stop cursing the darkness and turn on the light regarding mental health and illness in our society and our schools," said Mayor Autry.
Fresno police chief Jerry Dyer said in 2007 alone, his officers responded to 108 calls on high school campuses for mental issues or attempted suicide.
To contact NAMI, call the Fresno office 559-224-2469.
