The recent unthinkable tragedy in Newtown, Conn., has given the media and the liberal left an opportunity to fill our eyes and ears with anti-gun rhetoric.

At the same time, how much is being said about the real cause of this and other mass killings that have taken place in recent years? We must do a better job of recognizing and treating mental illness. It can no longer be ignored because of some perceived stigma that it carries.

People who suffer from mental illness need our help, and that sometimes includes treatment over their objections. We must be proactive and not wait until after an act is committed.

Terry Costakis

Bluffton