How can the mental health system stop a shooting when most shooters aren't mentally ill? We revisit a conversation i first had in 20 18 with a psychiatrist who wrestling with that challenge. This episode is supported by better help, online therapy. Get cent off your first month of onmin therapy at better help dot com.
After a series of deadly mass shootings in the United States, the National Rifle Association and some Republican leaders and conservatives are pointing to mental illness.
This approach raises a question: How can the mental health system stop gun violence when mental illness is so rarely the cause of it?
We revisit a conversation from 2018 with a psychiatrist who is wrestling with that challenge.
Guest: Dr. Amy Barnhorst, the vice chairwoman of community psychiatry at the University of California, Davis.
Want more from The Daily? For one big idea on the news each week from our team, subscribe to our newsletter.
Background reading:
- Many Republicans opposed to more gun control have called instead for investing in mental health programs, increasing funding for law enforcement and bolstering security at schools. Many Democrats say they are missing the point.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.