Summary: HR 6301 recognizes May of 2025 as "Mental Health Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island. The bill highlights the importance of mental health in emotional, psychological, and social well-being, noting the significant impact mental health has on individuals' ability to manage stress, maintain relationships, and adapt to life changes. It cites statistics indicating that nearly 20% of children and young people in the U.S. experience mental health disorders, along with rising suicide rates, which have become a leading cause of death among young people.

The bill calls for increased awareness and education regarding mental health, urging citizens, organizations, and schools to promote mental health education and training. It advocates for evidence-based training programs that equip individuals with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health challenges, thereby reducing stigma and fostering a supportive community. The bill concludes by directing the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy to the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals, to further the initiative.