Mental health care

Describe the issue and trace its legislative history from the colonial period through the present. What kinds of policy solutions did the nation develop to address this problem? Please include major legislation, laws and policies on a Federal, State and Local level (if appropriate). Identify and discuss the contextual issues (e.g. social, political and ideological factors) and how they influenced the shape of social policy during each historical period discussed. Address how one of the themes (local v. federal, public v. private, worthy poor v. unworthy poor, role of women) is reflected in the policy solutions enacted.