S2: E8 - Inside the "legislative" lines with Kate Rawlins of Colorado Mad Moms

This episode of the podcast features an in-depth conversation with Kate Rawlinson, founder of Colorado Mad Moms, a grassroots advocacy group for families and caregivers of people with severe mental illness. Host Laura discusses the challenges and stigma faced by families, the importance of education and support, and the legislative advocacy work being done at the Colorado state level.

Kate shares her personal journey as a mother of an adult son with schizophrenia, her transition from the arts to mental health advocacy, and the formation and mission of Colorado Mad Moms. The discussion covers the complexities of severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder, as well as the barriers to effective treatment—especially around the medication Clozapine.

Listeners learn about the group’s efforts to educate families, support each other, and push for policy changes at the Capitol. The episode highlights the need for better resources, the power of community, and the ongoing fight to improve mental health care and legislation. Resources, events, and support groups are shared for those seeking help or wanting to get involved in advocacy.