Reach Out PA: Your Mental Health Matters

On Thursday, January 2, 2020 Governor Tom Wolf announced a focused multi-agency effort and anti-stigma campaign — Reach Out PA: Your Mental Health Matters — aimed at expanding resources and the state’s comprehensive support of mental health and related health care priorities in Pennsylvania. The Governor announced several initiatives and reviews the administration will undertake for commonwealth agencies to bolster the effort. Further, over the coming weeks, agencies will announce additional initiatives. The governor was joined by mental health advocates, social workers, educators, military veterans, and cabinet secretaries in making the announcement. READ MORE

Mental Health Association in Pennsylvania has issued the following statement in support:

The Mental Health Association in Pennsylvania (MHAPA) supports and applauds Governor Tom Wolf and his administration’s efforts to recognize and address the mental health issues more than 1.8 million Pennsylvanians face every day. Across the Commonwealth, many residents struggle to access adequate, consistent, affordable care that addresses mental health concerns and conditions. Quality access is critically important on the path to mental health recovery.

Expanding access to care, providing resources and supportive networks, and implementing uniformed recovery-focused language that debunks myths about mental illness and supports the elimination of stigma are integral components of this statewide collaborative effort. Stigma remains one of the largest deterrents that stops individuals from seeking assistance and support.

MHAPA and its Affiliates look forward to working closely with the Wolf administration to help advance Reach Out PA: Your Mental Health Matters across Pennsylvania. Follow our website and social media pages for updates and opportunities to support continued growth during this exciting time in the state.

— Shalawn L. James, Acting Executive Director