Patrick J. Kennedy is a former U.S. congressman, mental health advocate, and author, widely recognized for his leadership in advancing mental health and addiction equity. During his 16-year tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives (1995–2011), he was a champion for mental health and addiction policy, serving as the lead sponsor of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (Federal Parity Law). This landmark legislation requires insurers to cover mental health and substance use disorder treatment on par with physical health conditions, such as diabetes and cancer. Since its passage, Kennedy has worked to ensure proper oversight and enforcement of the law to expand access to care for millions of Americans.
In 2013, Kennedy founded The Kennedy Forum, a nonprofit organization that brings together advocates, business leaders, and government agencies to promote evidence-based mental health and addiction policies and practices. In 2023, The Kennedy Forum launched the Alignment for Progress initiative, aiming to achieve 90/90/90 by 2033: ensuring that 90% of individuals are screened for mental health and substance use disorders, 90% of those screened receive evidence-based treatment, and 90% of those in treatment manage their symptoms in recovery.
In 2015, Kennedy co-authored the New York Times bestseller A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction, in which he details his personal experiences with mental illness and addiction and lays out a bold vision for the future of mental health care in America. His second co-authored book, Profiles in Mental Health Courage, will be released in April 2024 and highlights compelling stories of Americans facing mental health challenges, many of whom are sharing their experiences publicly for the first time.
Kennedy is also the founder of DontDenyMe.org, an educational campaign that empowers consumers and providers to understand their parity rights and access essential appeals guidance and resources. Additionally, he is the co-founder of One Mind, an organization advocating for greater global investment in brain research; Psych Hub, the world’s most comprehensive online learning platform for mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention; and the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s Mental Health & Suicide Prevention National Response to COVID-19 (National Response). He also serves as co-chair of the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Behavioral Health Integration Task Force, continuing his lifelong mission to advance mental health policy, research, and awareness nationwide.