# Congressman Adam Smith Advocates for Persistent Care From the Right Providers and Legislative Action in Mental Health Awareness

By Kevin Stevenson · Published 2024-06-07 · Updated 2026-05-19 · Healthcare on MarketScale
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Creator hub: I Don't Care

> Despite affecting millions of Americans, mental health care access remains fragmented, prompting lawmakers to champion systemic reforms

## Key points

- Congressman Smith recounts his battle with anxiety beginning in 2013 and how persistence in finding the right providers — including muscle activation therapy and psychotherapy — was key to his recovery.
- Nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, yet access to adequate care remains fragmented and stigmatized.
- Smith argues that public transparency from lawmakers and other public figures can meaningfully shift cultural attitudes and support stronger mental health policy.

Block Field

Mental health awareness continues to grow, yet many still struggle with stigma and access to adequate care. According to the [National Institute of Mental Health](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness), nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness. This pressing issue requires open dialogue and effective policy solutions to address the persistent barriers and emerging challenges in the mental health landscape.

> Nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness.

How can public figures influence the conversation around mental health?

This is the core question explored in a recent episode of “I [Don’t Care](https://marketscale.com/shows/i-dont-care/) with [Dr. Kevin Stevenson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwstevensonmbafache/),” where [**Congressman Adam Smith**](https://adamsmith.house.gov/) shares his deeply personal journey with mental health challenges. The discussion covers the congressman’s experiences with chronic pain and crippling anxiety, detailed in his book [*Lost and Broken: My Journey Back from Chronic Pain and Crippling Anxiety*](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Broken-Journey-Chronic-Crippling/dp/0757324622), as well as the broader implications for mental health policy and the importance of public transparency.

**Key Points from the Episode:**

- Congressman Smith’s cumulative journey with physical and mental health challenges, including his battles with anxiety starting in 2013.
- The importance of persistence and finding the right healthcare providers, including muscle activation therapy and psychotherapy, in managing his condition.
- The broader cultural and legislative efforts needed to improve mental health awareness and access to care.

> The importance of persistence and finding the right healthcare providers, including muscle activation therapy and psychotherapy, in managing his condition.

### About the Guest

**Congressman Adam Smith** has served Washington State’s Ninth District for over 26 years. Known for his advocacy in mental health, Smith brings both personal and legislative insights to the table. His book highlights his journey and aims to destigmatize mental health struggles, encouraging others to seek help.

Tags: Adam Smith, Lost and Broken: My Journey Back from Chronic Pain and Crippling Anxiety, mental health, mental health challenges, mental health policy, mental illness

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