Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health to Spearhead Initiatives Throughout The Month of May
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949, increasing awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in people’s lives. County Executive Ken Jenkins is officially recognizing the month of May as Mental Health Awareness Month in Westchester.
The annual recognition will appear in digital form outside the Westchester County Center for the month of May. In addition, a series of other initiatives will be spearheaded by the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH). This year’s theme is “Turn Awareness into Action,” encouraging individuals and communities to go beyond recognizing the importance of mental health, to taking steps to improve mental well-being and bring positive change.
“Each year, we proudly declare the month of May as Mental Health Awareness Month in Westchester, because promoting good mental health is more relevant today than ever,” CE Jenkins said. “It is a time to raise awareness of those living with mental or behavioral health issues, and help reduce the stigma that so many experience. Our Department of Community Mental Health has made this a priority not only in May, but throughout the year. Whether it is the Soul Shop training that connects mental health and faith-based leaders, creating initiatives to increase behavioral workforce development, the Fall Forum on Co-Occurring System of Care, or the recent Youth Summit, our DCMH staff is making a considerable impact on the everyday lives of our residents.”
“The mental health of all Westchester County residents is a top priority. We thank County Executive Ken Jenkins for declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month and promoting educational opportunities and services available here,” Commissioner of DCMH Michael Orth said. “His consistent support and unwavering devotion to recognizing the struggle of those with mental health conditions is why we are close to opening our new safety net clinic, expanding our Employee Assistance Program offices, and continuing to develop new and innovative programs across the County.”
The 988 Lifeline, St. Vincent’s Enhanced Behavioral Health Crisis Line, which is funded by Westchester County, is a free 24/7 hotline that provides confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for individuals in need and their loved ones. The Lifeline received over 18,000 calls in the year 2024. The County Mobile Crisis Response Teams (MCRT) handled another 2,000 responses for unique individuals across the County.
As part of the County’s efforts to promote May as Mental Health Awareness Month, DCMH is launching a “Tweet a Day for May” campaign, sharing information about events, ideas, and resources. Posts will be accessible by following DCMH on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.
For additional information on resources and training programs, contact the Department of Community Mental Health at (914) 995-5220.
