CCHR Florida Marks 36 Years of Championing Mental Health Rights

109 N. Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL - As the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) Florida marks its 36th anniversary, the organization reflects on its mission: to advocate for mental health human rights and protect citizens from abuses in the mental health system. Established in 1977 and formally becoming a chapter in 1989, CCHR has focused on revealing injustices and fostering legislation aimed at improving mental health care in the state.

Over these years, CCHR has educated Floridians about their rights under mental health law, successfully influencing the passage of over 50 laws that reform mental health practices. Notably, the organization has drawn attention to the troubling misuse of the Baker Act, which allows for the involuntary examination of individuals believed to pose a danger to themselves or others. During the peak of 2020-2021, more than 39,000 children were Baker Acted—often without parental consent—and many families were left in the dark about these distressing situations. CCHR has secured the safe release of over 1,800 individuals from such unjust acts since 2015.

Concerns Over the Baker Act

The Baker Act, ideally, was created for emergency interventions. However, CCHR Florida reports that it has been misapplied, particularly impacting children. Despite a 2021 amendment requiring parental notification before a child is subject to a Baker Act, there are still numerous violations. Instances where children are removed from schools without their parents being informed until days later raise serious ethical questions. Many parents are left without adequate legal recourse and, alarmingly, some children may be held for days or forcibly medicated.

Families often find themselves trapped in a system that profits from involuntary commitments. Each admission to psychiatric facilities generates revenue, and parents frequently have little knowledge of the protocols involved. Cases of a 6-year-old being Baker Acted for a tantrum and a 14-year-old for anxiety over homework highlight the vulnerability of young individuals under this legislation. This misuse of the Baker Act has been condemned as a human rights violation, prompting calls for accountability and reforms to protect families.

Looking Ahead

In recognition of their accomplishments and ongoing challenges, CCHR Florida will celebrate its anniversary on July 12th at the Fort Harrison in Clearwater, FL. This milestone serves not just as a moment of reflection but as a call to action, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring mental health laws respect individual rights and dignity. With eleven awards under its belt, including the prestigious Platinum Award, CCHR stands firm in its role as a watchdog for mental health practices.

CCHR is located at 109 N. Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL, and can be reached at 800-782-2878—open lines to those seeking guidance on mental health rights. As Florida continues to grapple with the implications of the Baker Act, awareness and advocacy are more crucial than ever.