HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration announced a comprehensive push to spotlight mental health and trauma awareness throughout Pennsylvania, marking May as Trauma and Mental Health Awareness Month. This initiative arrives amid growing acknowledgment of the profound impact that adverse childhood experiences and other traumatic events can have on individuals throughout their lives.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has outlined a robust agenda aimed at expanding access to trauma-informed and healing-centered care, underscoring a commitment to the mental wellness of all Pennsylvanians. This effort builds upon previous investments, including substantial allocations in the 2023-24 budget for student mental health services and county mental health support. The forthcoming 2024-25 budget proposal looks to further these endeavors by earmarking an additional $100 million for K-12 school mental health funding, enhancing community-based mental health services with a $20 million boost, dedicating $10 million to 988 crisis hotline operations, and investing $5 million in walk-in mental health crisis stabilization centers.
Highlighting the critical nature of addressing early exposure to trauma, Dr. Maryann McEvoy, Child Advocate for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, emphasized the need for comprehensive societal transformation at all levels—from policy formulation to community engagement—to effectively protect and empower children and adults alike.
In tandem with these funding initiatives, HEAL PA, the state’s trauma coalition, is spearheading a variety of events and programs in collaboration with the Department of Human Services’ Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the PA Behavioral Health Council, and the Department of Education’s Office of Safe Schools. Activities include no-cost public events like guided yoga sessions and an art exhibit titled “I’m Fine,” which features ceramic masks created by residents to express the often minimized mental health struggles individuals face.
Additionally, Pennsylvania is aligning with the national #WeHealUS campaign to foster a unified approach toward trauma-informed services and mental health intervention across the United States. This collective effort aims to catalyze cross-sector and cross-state collaboration to advance the healing process within the Commonwealth and beyond.
By placing mental health and trauma awareness at the forefront of its agenda, the Shapiro Administration seeks not only to address the immediate needs of its residents but also to contribute to the long-term betterment of society by mitigating the social and health challenges exacerbated by prolonged adversity and trauma. This holistic strategy reflects a growing recognition of mental health as a pivotal aspect of public health, aiming to normalize conversations around mental wellness and accessibility to care.
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