The Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) recognizes World Mental Health Day, celebrated annually on October 10 to raise awareness, promote wellness and recovery, and reduce stigma surrounding mental health. This year’s theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” highlights the challenges faced in the aftermath of disasters such as natural catastrophes, war, conflict, and public health emergencies. MHANYS also recognizes the immense toll these crises place on first responders, who serve on the frontlines during these moments of greatest need.
There is no health without mental health. Especially in times of disaster, communities cannot fully heal without mental health literacy—the ability to understand, talk about, and take action for mental health. That literacy begins early, and MHANYS has been at the forefront of making mental health education accessible across New York State.
From our School Mental Health Resource & Training Center, which provides schools, educators, students, and families with vital support and tools, to our statewide network of affiliates delivering training and resources, MHANYS is committed to embedding mental health literacy into every corner of our communities.
We also deliver Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for adults, youth, teens, and specialized populations, empowering thousands of New Yorkers each year to recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges, respond with compassion, and connect people to resources. For those on the frontlines, our HERO (Helping Every Responder Overcome) program equips first responders with resilience skills, peer support networks, and crisis intervention tools. This is especially critical, as recent data shows suicidal thoughts among New York’s first responders are four times higher than the general population.
There is also good news: Mental Health America has ranked New York #1 nationally in its “State of Mental Health in America” report, reflecting the decades of leadership, advocacy, and collaboration MHANYS has carried forward with affiliates, schools, first responder partners, and community members statewide. While this ranking is encouraging, we know there is more to be done to close persistent gaps and ensure equity in access and support.
You Can Make a Difference
Enroll in a Mental Health First Aid training or explore MHANYS’ wide range of educational programs to strengthen your knowledge and capacity to support others.
Join our Legislative Action Community to learn about MHANYS’ advocacy priorities, from strengthening the mental health workforce to supporting schools, suicide prevention, and funding for crisis resources like 988.
Contribute to our Community Education Fund, which helps us offer no-cost training so more people can access lifesaving knowledge and tools.
As we mark World Mental Health Day, let it serve as a reminder of the progress we’ve made together – and as a call to strengthen our resolve for the work ahead. Together, we can ensure that every New Yorker has access to the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive.
