The resolution introduced in the Wisconsin Legislature designates May 2025 and May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Months in the state. It emphasizes the importance of mental well-being for individuals, families, and communities, highlighting the need for informed dialogue and the reduction of stigma surrounding mental health issues. The resolution notes that mental health conditions affect a significant portion of the population, with one in five adults and one in six youth experiencing such challenges annually. It also points out the alarming rise in youth mental health issues, particularly a 31 percent increase in emergency room visits related to mental health among young people in 2020.
Furthermore, the resolution underscores the necessity of access to professional mental health services across all regions of Wisconsin, as well as the role of mental health professionals and peer support networks in helping individuals manage their mental health challenges. It calls for continued efforts to strengthen mental health systems, expand access to services, and improve awareness of mental health issues. By designating May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the Wisconsin Legislature aims to promote recovery, growth, and thriving among individuals facing mental health conditions.