Poughkeepsie… May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which includes Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week from May 7-13th. The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) is partnering with Mental Health America (MHA) to host several events throughout the month to increase awareness and understanding about living with a mental illness.
“Good mental health is integral to a person’s overall health and well-being,” said A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, DBCH Commissioner. “We encourage members of the community to take advantage of the many events planned in May to increase awareness and reduce the stigma often associated with mental illness, and to learn about the many services and tools available to them in Dutchess County.”
The public is invited and encouraged to participate in the following events throughout the county:
The events are sponsored by the Children’s Mental Health Week Planning Committee, which includes DBCH, Mental Health America, Taconic Resources for Independence, Astor Services for Families, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). In addition to participating in these events, the public is encouraged to join in NAMI’s Mental Health Awareness Ribbon Campaign throughout the month to foster open dialogue on the subject of mental illness.
Individuals can learn more about the many mental health resources available in the county, including Dutchess County HELPLINE, the Mobile Crisis Intervention Team, the county’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative, and the newly opened Stabilization Center, by calling (845) 485-9700 or visiting DutchessNY.gov/DBCH.
For those dealing with any mental health crisis or substance use issue, or who are at risk of suicide, CALL or TEXT HELPLINE at (845) 485-9700 -- 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. HELPLINE is staffed by experienced people who care and know how to help immediately. HELPLINE also features a mobile app that is available through both iTunes and Google Play.