Nyack, NY - January 7, 2026 - Independent filmmaker, podcast host, and mental health advocate Bud Rebel today announces a bold new campaign to reshape the national conversation around mental health care in the United States. Dubbed “Make Mental Health Great Again,” this initiative calls for pragmatic policy reforms and expanded support systems to address the deepening mental health crisis affecting individuals, families, and communities nationwide.

Rebel’s advocacy extends beyond filmmaking into direct action and public engagement. His campaign calls for changes to existing laws, expanded treatment access, and new support structures for individuals in crisis. At the core of his proposals are reforms to HIPAA privacy rules to allow family members appropriate access to treatment information and support, ensuring loved ones are not kept in the dark during critical moments of care. He also advocates for fair access to guardianship regardless of financial means, so families who genuinely want to help their loved ones are not excluded by cost or bureaucracy.

Additionally, Rebel emphasizes the importance of investing in housing and stability after treatment. Providing safe, supportive housing following mental health treatment has been shown to significantly reduce repeat hospitalizations and relapse, helping individuals reintegrate into society with dignity and long-term support rather than cycling through emergency care systems.

“I’ve personally seen the destruction of many individuals and loved ones due to a system that has become a revolving door of sickness,” said Bud Rebel. “Most of the problems we face - including crime, illicit drug abuse, and abuse - are tied to untreated mental health challenges that too often remain hidden. It’s time to stop leaving families powerless and bring mental health out of the shadows.”

Bud Rebel’s passion for reform is deeply personal. Having witnessed firsthand the toll that inadequate mental health care takes on individuals and families, he is committed to challenging a system that often prioritizes privacy loopholes and profit over healing and human connection. His initiative seeks to spark honest conversations and push for reforms that focus on prevention, accountability, and compassionate care.

“Of course, to be able to meet with the President, whom is a man who gets things done no matter what your political persuasion is, is one of the major goals. Too many campaigns sound good on paper, but the results take years to occur, if at all. The crisis with mental health is something we as a nation cannot wait on as the victims continue to pile up.”

As Bud hits a pivotal birthday on 1/20/26, he wants his legacy to be truly helping those who have been left behind and is therefore dedicating additional spirit to this campaign.

To support his mission, Rebel has launched a GoFundMe campaign to fund nationwide outreach, awareness efforts, and advocacy. Through this initiative, he seeks to speak directly with policymakers to propose solutions that support individuals and families failed by the current system, while engaging the public in a movement for meaningful mental health reform.

“I want to make real, actionable change - not just talk about the problem,” Rebel added. “This is about creating a society where families aren’t shut out, where help comes before tragedy, and where mental health is treated with the urgency it deserves.”

About Bud Rebel

Bud Rebel is an independent filmmaker, podcast host, and media creator known for exploring the human condition and complex social issues. His work and advocacy focus on challenging broken systems and amplifying voices that are too often ignored. His mental health reform efforts are rooted in lived experience and a commitment to long-term societal change.

Support & Participation

Visit BudRebelProductions.com to learn more about the “Make Mental Health Great Again” initiative and follow updates on Bud Rebel’s advocacy efforts.

To directly support Bud Rebel’s nationwide mental health advocacy mission, please visit the GoFundMe campaign: gofundme.com/f/support-bud-rebels-mental-health-advocacy-mission

Media Contact
Company Name: Bud Rebel Productions
Contact Person: Bud Rebel
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: https://www.budrebelproductions.com/