This week, I wore purple alongside my Assembly colleagues for P.S. I Love You Day, which is held on the second Friday in February to raise awareness for mental health. The Long Island non-profit organization P.S. I Love You is dedicated to addressing the stigma surrounding mental illness and creating supportive environments. Dedicating days to causes like this is important to remind us of the mental health challenges many may be facing. 

Despite the prevalence of mental health issues, there remains a pervasive stigma attached to them. It's imperative we acknowledge and eliminate barriers to effective mental health care. A solid foundation in mental health care can lead to productive methods to cope with daily stress and establish a positive relationship with oneself and others. From the North Country to the Mohawk Valley to Long Island, this is a subject on which we must stand united. We need to instill hope in those affected by mental illness and foster an environment and a community where everyone feels supported.

This year's budget must prioritize the well-being of New Yorkers by expanding mental health services. There are barriers in rural areas to accessing these resources, with suicide still on the rise. This reality compelled me to draft a proposal aimed at establishing a Rural Suicide Prevention Council to examine the suicide epidemic in rural New York (​A.1680​). A robust mental health infrastructure can empower individuals to develop a positive self-image, effectively manage stress and nurture healthy relationships.

Today is an opportunity to extend kindness to our neighbors and check in with loved ones. For more information and to be connected to free local resources, call ​The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (​SAMHSA​)​ Helpline at 988 or visit their Web site. Let’s lead by example to increase mental health awareness support.