ADMH commemorates Mental Health Awareness Month
Encourages Alabamians to know ‘where to start’ in seeking help
Montgomery, Ala. – In May of each year, the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) joins state and national organizations in commemorating Mental Health Awareness Month, a nationwide observance that highlights the need for greater awareness, understanding, and acceptance of mental illness.
This year’s theme, “Where to Start,” emphasizes the importance of everyone knowing “where to start” in receiving behavioral health services and supports.
“For individuals and families that do not know where to start, the Alabama Crisis System of Care offers an access point to mental health, substance use or suicidal crisis services and resources,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell. “Through the 988 Lifeline, Mobile Crisis Teams and Crisis Centers located around the state, help is available.”
As an entry point into the Alabama Crisis System of Care, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline gives individuals “someone to call” when they or a family member or loved one is in crisis. Crisis Centers are now located in five regional areas, Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery and Tuscaloosa, with a sixth opening in Dothan in the coming months.
This month, the ADMH is providing information to providers on “Where to Start” with a Toolkit, that offers them a foundational resource to better support individuals, showcase accessible services, and continue to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health.
ADMH Department will host two notable events to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Month: Strike Out Stigma Baseball Night on May 3, 2024, and the Capitol Showcase Art Exhibition will be on display throughout the entire month of May.
The Capitol Showcase will feature artists from across the state who shared their talents while navigating mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders, offering a profound reflection of resilience and creativity.
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ADMH invites its providers and partners as well as the state’s businesses, and civic and faith-based organizations to encourage Alabamians to familiarize themselves with “Where to Start” to find mental health services and supports.
For more information on Mental Health Awareness Month, please contact the Office of Public Information at publicinformation.dmh@mh.alabama.gov or 334-242-3417.