Salem Celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month

Salem Takes Action for Mental Health Awareness Month

As part of a nationwide initiative, May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month—a period dedicated to emphasizing the significance of mental well-being and dismantling the stigma associated with mental health issues. This year, Mayor Dominick Pangallo and the City of Salem are reaffirming their commitment to addressing the mental health needs of individuals and families throughout the community.

In alignment with this initiative, the City of Salem continues to invest in innovative and collaborative approaches to mental health care, particularly focused on the youth population. A notable project underway is the Salem Youth Mental Health Task Force, an initiative that was launched in partnership with the Justice Resource Institute (JRI) in the fall of 2024. This Task Force is a strategic collaboration involving local schools, mental health service providers, and state agencies, all aimed at proactively addressing the escalating mental health needs of young people in Salem.

Under the leadership of Sarah Roy, Director of the Salem Children’s Alliance, and facilitated by Stephanie Sladen, Executive Director of JRI’s Children’s Friend & Family Services, the Task Force is working diligently to strengthen partnerships, pinpoint resource deficiencies, and create more equitable, accessible systems of mental health care. Their focus is on amplifying youth and family voices while also supporting caregivers, ensuring that all young residents of Salem have the tools and opportunities necessary to thrive.

For 2025, the Task Force will operate under the theme “Turn Awareness into Action,” which aims to celebrate the progress made in recognizing mental health’s critical importance, while also challenging the community to translate understanding into actionable steps for meaningful change.

Mayor Pangallo emphasized the foundation that mental health creates for community strength, stating, “This Task Force is an example of what can happen when individuals and organizations unite with a shared commitment to support our youth.”

The City of Salem urges residents to take this month as an opportunity to educate themselves about mental health, to engage in conversations with those around them, and to utilize available support resources. By fostering connections and promoting mental wellness, Salem can establish a healthier, more supportive environment for all.

For those experiencing mental health challenges, the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including holidays. This service connects individuals to clinical assistance, regardless of the type of support needed. Residents can call or text 833-773-2445 for free, confidential help. Furthermore, real-time interpretation services are available in over 200 languages, and for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, assistance can be accessed through MassRelay by dialing 711 or using a video relay or caption service to connect with BHHL staff.

Through these initiatives and resources, Salem is committed to breaking down barriers related to mental health and ensuring the well-being of its community.