Title: Psychiatrists Call for RFK Jr.’s Removal as Health Secretary – A Threat to Mental Health Care? In recent news, psychiatrists have joined other public health groups in calling for the removal of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from his position as health secretary. The Southern California Psychiatry Society and the Committee to Protect Public Mental Health are among those who believe that RFK Jr.’s leadership has increased stigma, instilled fear, and hindered access to mental health care. The actions of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., leader of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), have raised concerns within the medical community. Psychiatrists argue that his policies are not only detrimental to public trust in healthcare institutions but also negatively impact the transparency, accountability, and decision-making power that Americans voted for. In recent years, the federal government has taken a leading role in funding efforts to address serious mental illness and substance use through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administrations (SAMHSA). However, under RFK Jr.’s leadership at HHS, these gains are now at risk. The Southern California Psychiatry Society represents over 1,000 clinicians, while the Committee to Protect Public Mental Health has just over 50 members who share this concern. The potential implications of keeping RFK Jr. as health secretary cannot be understated. With mental health care already struggling due to stigma and lack of funding, his policies could further exacerbate these issues. It is crucial that we listen to the voices of professionals within the field who are calling for change in order to protect public mental health. In conclusion, it is essential that we pay attention to this call from psychiatrists and other public health groups demanding RFK Jr.’s removal as health secretary. His leadership has proven detrimental to mental health care accessibility and transparency within the healthcare system. It’s time for a change if we want to ensure the well-being of our nation’s citizens.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/10/06/nx-s1-5559217/rfk-jr-mental-health-substance-abuse-ssri)
#psychiatrists
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