In the shadow of Calvin Clark's tragic death, a powerful call for change resonates. His mother, Jerri Clark, stands as a voice for the voiceless, advocating for a paradigm shift in how we approach mental health within our criminal justice system. This is not merely a tale of one family's struggle but a reflection of a broader societal issue that demands our urgent attention.
The story of Calvin Clark is a stark reminder of the failures within our current system. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Calvin's journey was marked by homelessness and multiple arrests, culminating in his tragic end. The response from the authorities was stark: 'It's not illegal to be psychotic,' 'He'll have to get much sicker,' and 'If things get bad enough, he will eventually fall into the criminal system.' These words echo the sentiment of many families who find themselves in a desperate search for help, only to be met with a system that seems more intent on managing the symptoms than addressing the root cause.
The symposium organized by the Salt Lake County district attorney, Sim Gill, serves as a microcosm of this larger issue. It brings to light the harsh reality that the criminal justice system has become a safety net for those with severe mental illnesses. Gill's personal experience, recalling a call from a woman desperate for help, underscores the urgency of the situation. The statistics are alarming: approximately 1 out of every 4 police shootings involves a person dealing with a mental illness, yet the question remains, 'What crimes do I want to commit today?'
The crux of the matter lies in the lack of support before the criminal justice system steps in. Families like the Clarks need greater access to case management, employment services, peer support, and permanent supportive housing. The treatment of mental illness should be approached with the same urgency and compassion as any other medical condition. The delay in treatment can lead to devastating outcomes, and it is high time we recognize the humanity in these individuals.
The Utah Coalition for Severe Mental Illness and the Utah Shattering Silence Coalition echo this sentiment. They advocate for a system that treats severe mental illness with the urgency and collaboration it demands. Their grassroots efforts are a testament to the power of family love and the determination to not give up on a system designed to serve. The message is clear: mental illness is not a lifestyle choice, and we must treat it as such.
The call for change is not just about laws and policies; it's about a fundamental shift in perspective. People with bipolar disorder should be treated with the same dignity and respect as those with Alzheimer's or dementia. The involvement of family members is crucial, as research shows that engagement leads to better outcomes for both the individual and the community. It is a call for a more compassionate and holistic approach to mental health, one that prioritizes treatment before tragedy strikes.
In the end, the story of Calvin Clark is a powerful reminder of the human cost of our current system. It is a call to action, urging us to reevaluate our priorities and create a support system that truly values and supports those struggling with mental illness. The time for change is now, and the voices of families like the Clarks must be heard.
