Gov. McKee declares May 20 ‘Mental Health Action Day’

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- Governor Dan McKee declared May 20 the first-ever Mental Health Action Day during a Facebook Live event Thursday.

The event featured three panels consisting of state and local leaders who spoke on ending the stigma around mental health and substance use disorders.

The first panel centered around reducing military mental health stigma and the state’s resources for veterans. The second panel was about BH Link, Rhode Island’s 24/7 call-in center, and the third panel focused on the impacts of social isolation on mental health.

“In Rhode Island, we are taking steps to improve mental health resources and care – working across state agencies while engaging stakeholders and community members,” Said EOHHS Secretary Jones. “We continue our efforts to deliver supports and services that meet the specific needs of Rhode Islanders and allow them to be healthy, safe and independent.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.