The mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been widespread and enduring. Last month, the World Health Organization declared the end of the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. Yet new data show that mental health recovery has stagnated for New Yorkers and has worsened for some populations in recent months. New Yorkers between the ages of 18 and 34, New Yorkers who have low incomes, and New Yorkers experiencing food insufficiency are all experiencing depression and/or anxiety at high levels.
In 2023, there has been significant—and unprecedented—support for mental health at the federal, State, and local levels. New York State alone has committed $1 billion to reduce the number of New Yorkers with unmet mental health needs. These investments have the potential to bring long-needed care to millions—and it is vitally important that they are rolled out in a way that is culturally competent and ensures high-quality care through cohesive mental health networks.
Please join NYHealth for a conversation with Kimberly A. Williams, President and CEO of Vibrant Emotional Health, and Pamela Mattel, President & CEO of Coordinated Behavioral Care, about the current state of mental health policies and programs and how we can capitalize on this momentum to advance sustainable changes in mental health care in New York State.