Dutchess County Recognizes May as Mental Health Awareness Month

Dutchess County Recognizes May as
Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time for communities to come together to reduce stigma, open conversations, and support one another. In Dutchess County, we are fortunate to have so many services through our Department of Mental Health (DMH), reinforcing that mental health is just as important as our physical health.

“Mental Health Awareness Month is a reminder that it's okay to ask for help. To be honest about how you’re feeling, and to check in on the people around you because you never know what someone is going through,” said Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino. “We are fortunate to have such dedicated staff at our Department of Mental Health who work tirelessly to make sure our neighbors have access to the support and resources they need.”

Proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month.

The DMH offers numerous resources to support individuals and families, including:

• The 988 HELPLINE, available 24/7 by call or text, connects you to trained mental health professionals who can provide support and connect you to local resources. You can also download the HELPLINE app on your device's app store to get access to mental health resources, including 988 support at your fingertips;
• The Stabilization Center, located at 230 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, provides 24/7 mental health and substance use support, and connects you to the services you need. No appointment needed;
• The Dutchess County Empowerment Center, also located at 230 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, provides mental health and substance use support from Recovery Coaches and their peers. The Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment. Walk-ins are welcome on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.;
• The Mobile Crisis Intervention Team can respond directly to individuals in crisis and provide immediate in-person support. Call or text 988 to get connected with a professional.

Commissioner of Mental Health, Jean-Marie Niebuhr said, “Dutchess County is home to amazing support services for individuals of all ages, and our team works every day to make sure our services are accessible and responsive. Mental Health Awareness Month is an important reminder that help is available, that no one has to navigate their challenges alone and that together we can help reduce the stigma and normalize conversations around our mental health.”

Dutchess County also partners with several mental health organizations throughout the community to provide services such as: Mental Health America of Dutchess County, Astor Services for Children & Families, Family Services, People USA and Abilities First.

County Executive Sue Serino concludes, “I encourage everyone to take a moment for themselves. Whether that's spending time with someone who makes you smile, or doing something that brings you joy. Taking care of ourselves is the most important thing we can do; not just this month, but every month.”

For more information, visit www.dutchessny.gov/mentalhealth