One in five people live with a mental health issue. Starting a conversation on mental health helps promote understanding and compassion. It reassures those living with mental illness that they are not alone. Throughout May, New York State will be raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing hope for recovery. Dr. Ann Sullivan shares more in her video message to New Yorkers.
Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation declaring May to be Mental Health Awareness Month in New York and directed that state buildings and landmarks be lit in green – the color used to symbolize mental health awareness.
Small messages of hope can have a big impact for those who have experienced a mental health issue. We asked New Yorkers what sayings encourage them to get mental health support. Some of these messages were used to create calming affirmational videos that encourage and empower others to improve their mental wellbeing.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re looking for more of these messages. Consider sharing a saying that helps you get through tough times. These messages will be featured in new videos that we’ll post to our social media pages throughout the year.
New York State continues to invest in mental healthcare to ensure everyone has access to critical services and supports. Governor Hochul’s $1 billion plan to strengthen mental healthcare has already made significant progress in expanding inpatient and outpatient capacity, while funding initiatives to help close gaps in the system. The investments included in the enacted FY 2025 State Budget build on this progress by including hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for:
Activities and events are scheduled throughout May including a celebration of children’s mental health at the annual What’s Great in Our State conference in Albany on May 7, and the 19th Annual Institute for Disaster Mental Health Conference in New Hyde Park on May 14.