A multidisciplinary agency, incorporated in 1956 and representing 36 national agencies in the mental health and welfare fields. It conducted a five-year study of the mental health needs of the nation between 1956 and 1961 as authorized by the U.S. Congress in the Mental Health Study Act of 1955. The final report of the Joint Commission, “Action for Mental Health,” led ultimately to legislation by Congress in 1963 authorizing and appropriating funds to facilitate the development of community mental health centers for the mentally ill and mentally retarded.
Established under the provisions of the Mental Health Study Act of 1955, conducted a comprehensive study of mental health programs and resources in the United States.