Governor Kathy Hochul marked the start of Mental Health Awareness Month by showcasing major gains in New York’s mental health system. She issued a proclamation, lit state landmarks green, and highlighted progress under her $1 billion mental health initiative.
Since launching the program in 2023, the state has expanded inpatient care, boosted housing options, and strengthened outpatient services statewide.
Largest psychiatric bed expansion in decades
New York has added 875 psychiatric beds statewide, including 325 at state-operated centers and 550 at community hospitals. New construction projects, including a 75-bed Transition to Home unit at Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, are underway.
New regulations now require hospitals to schedule follow-up care after inpatient or emergency psychiatric treatment. Facilities must also screen for suicide risk and coordinate discharge plans.
Housing, outreach and crisis services grow
Hochul’s initiative funded 1,296 units of specialized housing, with 2,204 more units under development. New programs like Safe Options Support have helped house more than 1,000 individuals.
Thirteen Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics are now operating, with 13 more coming this summer. These clinics offer mental health and substance use services to all, regardless of insurance.
The state also launched 50 Critical Time Intervention teams and four Intensive and Sustained Engagement (INSET) teams to help people transition from hospitals to community living.
Expanded services for children and youth
More than 1,200 school-based mental health clinic satellites now operate statewide. Thirty Youth Assertive Community Treatment teams serve young New Yorkers with serious emotional needs.
Insurance reforms take effect
New rules require health insurers to offer timely access to mental health services. Starting July 1, plans must schedule appointments within 10 days or allow out-of-network care at no extra cost.
Green lights for awareness
Fifteen landmarks, including Niagara Falls, the Empire State Plaza, and Moynihan Train Hall, will glow green tonight to honor Mental Health Awareness Month.
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