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 to a troubling increase in youth mental health issues, particularly a 31 percent rise 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, both rural and urban. It acknowledges the vital role of mental health professionals and peer support networks in helping individuals manage their mental health challenges. The Wisconsin Legislature expresses its commitment to strengthening mental health systems, expanding access to services, and improving awareness of mental health issues, thereby fostering an environment where individuals can recover and thrive.