The 2025 Senate Joint Resolution 53, introduced by a bipartisan group of senators and representatives, seeks to designate May 2025 and May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Months in Wisconsin. This resolution emphasizes the importance of mental well-being for individuals, families, and communities, highlighting the need for informed discussions and efforts to combat the stigma associated with mental health issues. It 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.
The resolution also addresses 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, a trend that has persisted. It underscores the necessity of accessible mental health services across all regions of Wisconsin and 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 enhancing mental health systems, expanding access, and improving awareness through this resolution.