CONCORD, NH - On May 05, 2025, Governor Kelly Ayotte signed a proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month and highlighted the importance of protecting mental health care services for Granite Staters.

“During Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to remind all Granite Staters that seeking treatment for a mental health challenge is just as important as going to the doctor when you’re sick,” said Governor Ayotte. “From supporting our Community Mental Health Centers to working with our community colleges and university system to train and retain providers, we will continue working to strengthen our state’s mental health care system. I thank NAMI New Hampshire and our Community Mental Health Centers for partnering with the State in this important effort.”

The Governor was joined by Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Lori Weaver, members of the DHHS Division for Behavioral Health Services, mental health care providers, and advocates from NAMI-New Hampshire.

“Five years into building a mental health system where every resident has access to the care and support they need, the Department remains motivated by our progress and will continue to push forward to build upon this important work,” said DHHS Commissioner Weaver. “Together with our partners and stakeholders, we have increased early intervention and crisis support services, built a children’s system of care for behavioral health and reduced emergency boarding with the waitlist regularly hitting zero. We know there is still much to accomplish and we are committed to making sure every person receives the care and support they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.”

“Awareness is a good thing, but what makes it great is when we translate it into action,” said Susan Stearns, Executive Director of NAMI-New Hampshire. So, let’s all commit to advocating for a budget for the next biennium that continues the work of the Mission Zero initiative, sustains the investments in our 10 Year Mental Health Plan, and protects Medicaid – the foundation of our mental health system. We must continue our work together to ensure that every Granite Stater can access the mental health care they need, when and where they need it.”