• Governor Hochul declared May as Mental Health Awareness Month in New York, emphasizing the state's commitment to improving mental health care.
• Since launching a $1 billion mental health initiative in 2023, New York has expanded capacity at psychiatric centers and increased outpatient services.
• The state has added 875 psychiatric beds and is developing 109 more, while also expanding housing and community support programs for individuals with mental illness.

Governor Kathy Hochul has declared May as Mental Health Awareness Month in New York, underscoring the state's commitment to improving mental health services. This announcement follows a $1 billion mental health initiative launched in 2023, aimed at expanding inpatient capacity, outpatient supports, and specialized housing for individuals with mental illness. The state has also implemented new regulations to ensure a continuum of care for individuals discharged from inpatient and emergency psychiatric facilities. This initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health needs across the state.

• What: New York State is expanding its mental health services through a $1 billion initiative, including increasing psychiatric bed capacity, outpatient services, and housing support. Governor Hochul declared May as Mental Health Awareness Month to further emphasize the state's commitment.
• Who: Governor Kathy Hochul, Dr. Ann Sullivan (Commissioner of the Office of Mental Health), Dr. James McDonald (State Health Commissioner), individuals with mental illness, and community-based organizations.
• When: The initiative was launched in 2023, with ongoing developments and expansions throughout 2024 and beyond. May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Where: New York State, with expansions occurring at state-operated psychiatric centers, community hospitals, and in the community through housing and support programs.

The mental health initiatives in New York, spearheaded by Governor Hochul, signify a substantial commitment to addressing mental health needs. The $1 billion investment aims to improve access to care, increase capacity in psychiatric facilities, and provide essential support services such as housing and outpatient care. By designating May as Mental Health Awareness Month and illuminating state buildings in green, the state seeks to reduce stigma and promote understanding of mental health issues. These efforts have the potential to positively impact thousands of individuals and families across New York.

The initiative has resulted in more than $105 million in operating funding and $831 million in capital awards, expanding inpatient capacity, outpatient supports, and specialized housing for individuals with mental illness.

The state has added 875 psychiatric beds, including 550 at community-based hospitals and 325 at state-operated centers.

The state has also established 13 new Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, with more expected this summer, and 50 Critical Time Intervention teams to support individuals during care transitions.

New York's comprehensive approach to mental health, including increased funding, expanded services, and awareness campaigns, demonstrates a significant effort to improve the lives of individuals with mental illness. The state's initiatives aim to provide a continuum of care, from inpatient services to community support, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary resources and assistance. While ongoing developments and evaluations will be crucial, these measures represent a positive step forward in addressing the mental health needs of New Yorkers.