In the Wake of a Murder

A Disturbing Public Response

Photo by Irham Setyaki on Unsplash

As a psychotherapist, I’ve witnessed how the stress of navigating our healthcare system impacts mental health. The barriers to affordable, quality care often leave people feeling helpless, anxious, and unseen—a pain that runs deeper than most realize.

The recent murder of a health insurance executive has left many of us grappling with a mix of emotions—shock, grief, and a simmering frustration over the state of our healthcare system. This tragedy underscores just how deeply healthcare issues affect us all. When people face insurmountable barriers to affordable, quality care, it’s no wonder that feelings of anger and helplessness arise.

Our hearts go out to the victim’s family during this difficult time.

As we reflect on this event, we must confront an unsettling truth: these emotions can sometimes twist into misplaced schadenfreude or a sense of grim satisfaction over a system we feel powerless to change. But violence, in any form, is never the answer. Real change comes not from destruction, but from collective, compassionate action.

While working in community mental health settings, I recall many clients who, despite working multiple jobs, struggled to afford medication for a chronic condition. The constant worry and uncertainty about their health had a profound impact on their mental well-being. This is just one example of how healthcare access and mental health are inextricably linked.

Remember, it's important to prioritize your well-being. While seeking support from mental health professionals can be beneficial, we must also address the root causes of these issues. By advocating for improved healthcare access and affordability, we can work towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, both physically and mentally.

The question before us is: How can we channel our emotions into building a more just and equitable healthcare system?

Advocate for Change

• Contact your elected officials to demand policies that prioritize healthcare access for all.

• Share your personal stories and experiences with your representatives to humanize the need for reform.

• Support organizations like Healthcare for America and Physicians for a National Health Program, which are leading the charge for systemic change.

Support Organizations on the Ground

• Volunteer with or donate to local clinics and community health centers that provide care to underserved populations.

• Partner with patient advocacy groups like the Patient Advocate Foundation, which help individuals navigate complex healthcare systems.

Vote for Healthcare Champions

• Research candidates’ positions on healthcare issues and vote for those who prioritize access and affordability.

• Hold elected officials accountable for fulfilling their promises to improve healthcare.

The healthcare system is far from perfect. Systemic issues—rising costs, insurance barriers, and inadequate access—drive frustration and despair. But by addressing these root causes together, we can create a system that truly serves everyone.

Let’s honor the lives touched by this tragedy—not with anger, but with a shared commitment to building a system rooted in care, dignity, and equity. Together, we can ensure that future generations inherit a healthcare system that prioritizes health and well-being.

Ultimately, improving access to healthcare isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a mental health issue. When we remove barriers to care, we reduce the burden of stress and suffering that weighs so heavily on so many lives. As a community, we have the power to create a system that nurtures both physical and mental well-being.