May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to come together as a community to raise awareness, reduce stigma and take meaningful steps toward supporting mental wellness in Indiana. Since 1949, this month has been a national observance dedicated to education, healing and advocacy.
This year, we’re called to do more than talk but also act. The 2025 national theme is “Turn Awareness Into Action," which means checking in on loved ones and reaching out for support when you need it.
Indiana is making real progress in mental health. Just a few years ago, we ranked 42nd in the country for mental health access and outcomes. Thanks to the work of dedicated advocates, policy support and organizations like Mental Health America of Indiana, we’ve moved up to 26th. There is more work to do but progress is being made to support Hoosiers' mental health.
In 2023, we passed a new law prioritizing mental health infrastructure through the recommendations of the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission to build a more responsive and accessible behavioral health system. Another law we passed that year aimed to connect individuals who may otherwise wind up in the criminal justice system with the necessary help and resources they need. We also expanded the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to ensure Hoosiers have someone to call, someone to respond and somewhere to go in an emergency.
In our recently passed two-year state budget, lawmakers again prioritized mental health funding.
Mental illness impacts around 1 in 5 U.S. adults annually — and behind every number is a person. In May and beyond, we're working to ensure everyone has access to the support they need.
There are many resources available if you or a loved one are struggling. You can call or text 988 for free, 24/7 emotional support. Additionally, you can dial 211 for help finding mental health counseling and other community resources, or 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for referrals to local mental health and substance use treatment programs.
