Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc.

11/20/2025

Transgender Day of Remembrance is a solemn time to honor the lives of transgender individuals lost to anti-trans violence and hate.

At MHANYS, we remember those we’ve lost and stand in solidarity with the trans community in the ongoing fight for safety, dignity, and mental health equity.

We are committed to ending stigma, addressing disparities, and fostering spaces where trans lives are protected, affirmed, and celebrated.

Remembrance must come with action.

Learn more and connect at mhanys.org/upcoming-events

11/19/2025

MHANYS Journal Vol. 4: School is in year-round with the SMHRTCenter as it works to be a steward of New York’s mental health education law, passed nearly ten years ago. Read about its latest efforts! https://bit.ly/44ibCVX

11/19/2025

11/18/2025

MHANYS on the Move! 🚑🧠

Last week, MHANYS, together with our partners at the New York State Department of Health, Bureau of EMS & Trauma Systems through the State EMS Resilience Officer Wellness Pilot, welcomed 20 representatives from EMS agencies across New York State for an intensive two-day training.

Participants earned certifications in:
🔥 Mental Health First Aid for Fire and EMS
🛟 SafeTALK Su***de Alertness Training
🔬 Science of Addiction and Recovery

Featured here: State EMS Director Ryan Greenberg addressing the group during Mental Health First Aid training, reinforcing the State’s commitment to strengthening mental health literacy, su***de prevention skills, and resilience within the EMS workforce.

This training is part of a year-long EMS Resilience Officer Fellowship, designed to equip selected EMS professionals with the skills, tools, and support needed to build sustainable peer support and wellness initiatives in their agencies.

We’re proud to stand alongside the State EMS team in building a stronger, healthier, more resilient EMS community across New York 💚

Check out training on our website: mhanys.org

11/17/2025

MHANYS on the Move 🚑🔥👮‍♂️📣

Last week, MHANYS staff had the opportunity to attend a Stress First Aid (SFA) Train-the-Trainer, hosted by the Sullivan County Division of Public Policy in partnership with the First Responder Center for Excellence. We were joined by dedicated individuals from across New York State - each committed to strengthening resilience and support within first responder communities 👮‍♀️🚒🚑

What is Stress First Aid?

Stress First Aid is a practical, peer-to-peer framework that helps first responders recognize stress reactions early and provide supportive actions before challenges escalate. Rather than a one-time intervention, SFA focuses on continuous monitoring, small supportive steps, and real-time care - all built around the unique pressures of first responder work. It’s designed to help individuals recover after difficult calls, maintain readiness, and strengthen long-term resilience 📣

We’re excited to bring this training into our growing catalog and look forward to supporting first responders and peer teams across New York State with these tools.

MHANYS remains on the move, strengthening mental health literacy, resilience, and support in every corner of the state. 🚒💙👮‍♂️

Check out training on our website: mhanys.org

11/17/2025

National Family Caregivers Month is a time to recognize the dedication, love, and sacrifices of those who care for others - often quietly, often without rest.

At MHANYS, we honor the vital role of caregivers and advocate for mental health support that acknowledges their challenges, uplifts their voices, and promotes their well-being.

We are committed to reducing stigma, expanding access to resources, and building systems of care that recognize caregiving as both a responsibility and a profound act of love.

Supporting caregivers is essential to supporting our communities.

Learn more and connect at mhanys.org/upcoming-events

11/13/2025

Transgender Awareness Week is a time to uplift trans voices, raise awareness of the challenges faced by the trans community, and advocate for equity, inclusion, and mental health for all.

At MHANYS, we support trans individuals in the pursuit of visibility, safety, and access to affirming mental health care that honors identity and lived experience.

We are committed to breaking stigma, promoting understanding, and ensuring that trans people are seen, supported, and valued every day.

Awareness is the first step toward lasting change.

Learn more and connect at mhanys.org/upcoming-events

11/13/2025

World Kindness Day is a reminder that small acts of care can make a big impact on others and on ourselves.

At MHANYS, we believe kindness is more than a gesture; it’s a vital part of mental health and community well-being. Whether it’s checking in on someone, offering support, or simply listening, kindness fosters connection, reduces stigma, and creates space for healing.

We’re committed to building a world where compassion leads the way in our policies, in our communities, and in our daily lives.

Kindness heals. Let’s keep showing up for one another.

Learn more and connect at mhanys.org/upcoming-events

11/12/2025

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects many people in different ways, and healing looks different for everyone.

PTSD can result from experiencing or witnessing trauma, leading to symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, and difficulty feeling safe. Recognizing the signs and seeking support is a crucial step toward recovery.

At MHANYS, we provide resources to help you understand PTSD and find care options that work for you or someone you love: mhanys.org/a-z-topic-guide/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/

You are not alone, and support is always available.

11/11/2025

MHANYS Journal Vol. 4: Stewardship is intertwined in all aspects of programs and services provided by the Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County. Check out the interview with their Executive Director, Michael Nordin.

In the same issue, we feature the Mental Health Association in Jefferson County, Inc., which recently held the grand opening for the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project of Lewis County. This new location will provide veterans and their families with access to support and resources from trained veteran peers. As we recognize Veterans Day, MHANYS extends our gratitude and thanks to all veterans and their families for their service, sacrifice, and courage.

https://bit.ly/47QFHx5

11/11/2025

Veterans Day is a time to honor the service, sacrifice, and strength of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and to recognize the ongoing impact that service has on mental health.

At MHANYS, we uplift the voices and experiences of veterans and their families, and we acknowledge the urgent need for accessible, culturally competent mental health support tailored to their unique journeys.

We remain committed to breaking stigma, promoting healing, and creating space where veterans feel seen, heard, and supported - not just today, but every day.

Honoring service means ensuring care.

Learn more and connect at mhanys.org/upcoming-events

11/06/2025

Last week, we hosted our annual Affiliate Membership Meeting/Policy Forum following our Annual Awards Dinner at The Desmond Hotel.

The forum was headlined by a special presentation and engaging discussion with Blake Washington, New York State Budget Director. We were also joined by Bob Moon, Deputy Commissioner, Division of Community Program Policy and Management, NYS Office of Mental Health; and, Trisha Schell-Guy, Director, Division of Program Development and Management, NYS Department of Health.

We appreciate our guest speakers' insights, collaboration, and commitment to improving mental health care across New York State.