May 23, 2022 - Harrisburg, PA
The Wolf Administration highlighted May as Mental Health Awareness Month, which seeks to raise awareness and understanding of mental health and wellness, mental illness, and substance use disorders and encourage people who are experiencing these to seek help. Especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has never been more important for Pennsylvania to invest in initiatives that provide support for vulnerable Pennsylvanians. Governor Tom Wolf's budget proposal calls for $36.6 million increase in county mental health base funds as well as an additional $40 million in one-time federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to support efforts to provide critical behavioral health services. "Each of us can and must be a source of support for our loved ones and people throughout our lives. Think about the number of people you interact with every day - there are endless opportunities to foster connections, be a source of validation, and help people feel less alone in whatever they may be going through," said Department of Human Services Acting Secretary Meg Snead. "Checking in on people, sharing resources, and helping people feel safe sharing their own experience are simple steps, but they can be the gentle support that someone needs to ask for help themselves." Speakers include:Meg Snead, DHS Acting SecretaryJen Smith, DDAP SecretaryMike Humphreys PID Acting CommissionerKristen Houser, OMHSAS Deputy Secretary
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