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How Has the Affordable Care Act Helped You? Share Your Story!


The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has helped millions of people with mental health conditions since being signed into law over a decade ago. Among other things, the ACA required coverage of mental health and substance use care in many types of health plans, expanded access to coverage to millions who couldn’t previously afford it, and allowed children to stay on their parent’s insurance plan until age 26.

We need your help to protect these gains.

The Supreme Court is considering a case that may put the ACA at risk. NAMI is working to make sure that our policymakers and the public understand the positive impact that the ACA has had on people with mental health conditions and why #WeCantGoBack to a time when these protections didn’t exist.

Policymakers need to hear from you about how the Affordable Care Act has impacted your life. Share your story and tell policymakers why the ACA is important for people affected by mental health conditions. NAMI will use these videos to help policymakers understand the ACA’s impact.

How Do I Share My Story?
If you or someone you know is ready to share your story, we want to hear from you! Record a 30-60 second video on your cell phone in landscape (horizontal) orientation, sharing your story using the prompts below.
  • Please say your name and the state that you live in at the beginning of the video.
  • Then say, "Because of the ACA" and fill-in with the example that applies to your life below.
  • End your video by saying the phrase: "We can't go back. We deserve mental health for all. "
Below are examples that you can use to start your story.
  • My mental health care is covered.
  • I can afford to see my therapist (or psychiatrist).
  • I can afford my mental health medication.
  • I got health insurance for the first time.
  • I was able to stay on my parents' insurance plan while I [went to college/got a job/lived my life].
  • I became eligible for Medicaid and now have coverage for mental health care.
  • I am able to get help for my substance use disorder.
  • I have peace of mind knowing that if I need mental health care, I will be covered.
Example script: My name is Taylor and I live in Virginia. Because of the ACA I have peace of mind knowing that if I need mental health care, I will be covered. When I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety, I got the therapy and medication I needed to be well. We can't go back. We deserve mental health for all.

We encourage you to share more of your story, but keep your total video to less than 60 seconds. Additional things to share include how this helped you or how it has impacted your life and your family.
To upload your video, click on the button below.

Contact us at mhpolicy@nami.org if you’re experiencing difficulties uploading your video.

By uploading your video, you agree that NAMI may use your video or story (in any part, full or edited) for the purpose of advocating, awareness and/or fundraising. This may include sharing your story with the media, using your story in videos, advertisements, alerts or in communications to policymakers. NAMI will only use your first name and your state for identification purposes. You also agree that NAMI may reach out to you with follow-up questions or for clarification. NAMI does not provide personal advocacy or legal services. If you need mental health resources go to www.nami.org/help or email info@nami.org. If you or somebody you know is in a mental health crisis, text "NAMI" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.