(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Rep. Tom Emmer.)

Ensuring mental health care access has always been a top priority for my office. We have advocated for increased health care resources for rural Americans and those struggling with addiction, as well streamlining care options.  

However, one area that deserves more attention are the mental health complications following reproductive loss. The loss of a child takes a terrible toll on the mental and emotional well-being of the mother. For those who experience a miscarriage, stillbirth, or an abortion, the pain and grief can be unimaginable. These mothers deserve proper mental health care to ensure they have the support they need to navigate such a difficult life event. 

Earlier this month, I introduced the Pregnancy Loss Mental Health Research Act which directs the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) focus on helping women cope with the loss of a child during pregnancy. Specifically, it directs the NIH to prioritize resources and research into clinical mental health complications following a pregnancy loss, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion.

At this time, of all the federal resources directed to the NIH each year for medical research, little is allocated to understand and identify treatment for mental health conditions following a pregnancy loss. As thousands of women confront these tragic situations each year, it is important that we continue to better our understanding of the mental health complications and improve the delivery of treatment and care for those who are suffering.

Epilepsy Awareness  

As we close out November which marks Epilepsy Awareness Month, I’d like to take a moment to share some information about a disease affecting over 3.4 million Americans. As the fourth most common neurological disease in the nation, epilepsy remains misunderstood by many. Since one out of every 26 people will be diagnosed with this illness, we should all take the time to understand the impact and learn seizure first aid. 

During Epilepsy Awareness Month, I encourage you to utilize these resources to better understand this condition that many Americans experience: 

If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the Epilepsy Foundation’s Helpline 24/7 by calling: 1-800-332-1000. 

Increased Heating Costs

Americans are currently experiencing the highest inflation levels in over three decades, with costs increasing significantly on household essentials like groceries and gasoline. Fuels used for home heating are not immune to this trend: the price of natural gas, which is used to heat more than half of American households, has nearly doubled since this time last year. 

These price increases could lead to Americans facing the most expensive winter in recent memory-and that’s just if temperatures stay mild. In fact, some Midwest households could see their heating bills increase by thousands of dollars. 

Have you adjusted your household budget to address rising home heating costs?