This is the problem with "mental health criteria". It's too vague. Federal standards need to be set so States and other jurisdictions don't abuse it (like NYC). It's an arbitrary and capricious process.
Well said Chis.
I wonder who do we trust to set the standard?
I have several Metal Health care providers in my family, one a practicing clinician. In their opinion being prescribed an antidepressant in itself does not make you risk for firearms ownership. Whether you are a risk is a far more complicated.
They all express that they fear this policy used in many counties will stop people from asking for and getting the help they need. That this policy is an uneducated knee jerk reaction to mental health care that typifies the issues and failures of this society to provide or encourage adequate mental health care. Or a deliberate attempt to misuse their diagnosis to promote a political agenda.
A lot of fine people you know attend counseling, use antidepressants, and are not a threat to anyone, and often fear sharing their treatment with you because of the reprisal they might receive.
If the use of a medication is criteria, what medications will be on the list, Paxil, Prozac, Insulin, prednisone, hormone replacements,? They all alter behavior. Who is going to decide that what one of us is taking is approved? What diseases will they pick next epilepsy, MS, etc.
As an old guy, I once walked around thinking I was invincible, "never happen to me".
But after an incurable life changing illness I have realized life is fragile, now I try to understand what others are going through, I could walk in their shoes tomorrow.
