CARMEL, NY – This week Putnam County kicked off May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This annual recognition helps to promote existing mental health resources, increase educational messaging, and challenge stigma for people with mental health diagnoses. Key areas of focus for this year’s celebration include intentional language and person-centered care, with the County hosting a forum on this on May 21, 8:30am to 12pm at the Bureau of Emergency Services auditorium, at 112 Old Rt 6, Carmel NY.

"May is a critical time for us to reflect on the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions and to reaffirm our commitment to providing support and resources for our community,” said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne. “By coming together during Mental Health Awareness Month, we can work towards breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need. I hope to see a good crowd at our forum later this month.”

Millions of New Yorkers are affected by mental health symptoms and diagnoses. Based on the Community Health Assessment conducted by the Putnam County Health Department, Putnam County Residents report they do not feel there are sufficient quality mental health providers here in Putnam. Additionally, Putnam County residents report high levels of pandemic impact on mental health, increased social isolation, and increased frequency of drug use. In response, Putnam County has refocused efforts to expand access to services, hire additional mental health experts, create a mental health co-response team with the County Sheriff’s Office, and bring additional providers to the community, including a partnership with PeopleUSA to open the County’s first Stabilization Center. 

“To approach Mental Health Awareness Month in a celebratory manner does not diminish the struggles and obstacles people with mental health diagnoses face.” Lauren Johnson, Dual Recovery Coordinator with the Putnam County Department of Mental Health states. “The goal is to change the language we use to be more empowering, intentional and inclusive to encourage anyone needing mental health support to not only know the resources available to them but to also feel welcome and empowered to access those resources.”

“It is essential for all residents to understand that they play a part in supporting the mental health of our community. That work begins with challenging stigma and the words we choose to use,” said Sara Servadio, Commissioner of Mental Health, Social Services & Youth Bureau.

The focus on person-centered, strengths- based services is carried into the Putnam County Mental Health Forum to be hosted this month. The title of the forum on May 21^st is “Words Matter: Fostering a Person-Centered, Inclusive Approach. The forum is open to all, and registration is required: https://form.jotform.com/241094989511161.

For more information on the Putnam County Department of Mental Health call 845-808-1500. Resources for Putnam residents can be found at:  https://putnamcountyny.gov/thebridge