‘Turn Awareness Into Action': What Indiana is doing for mental health
Every May, Mental Health America leads the state and nation in recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May throughout the United States since 1949. The month is often observed with media, local events, proclamations, and even film screenings. The purpose is to raise awareness and educate the public about mental wellness and mental illness, to reduce the stigma around the disorder. Individuals oftentimes feel alone with their illness — when in fact, one in four are at lifetime risk.
But we need to do more. This year, we are not just raising awareness — we are turning that awareness into action!
The national theme for 2025 is: 'Turn Awareness Into Action.' This is a call to go beyond the conversation and take real steps to improve mental well-being — whether that means checking in on a friend, calling your legislator, or reaching out for help yourself.
In Indiana, this movement is already underway.
Just a few years ago, our state ranked 42nd in the nation for mental health care access and outcomes. Mental Health Advocates, stakeholders, and legislators turned awareness into action in 2023 and made mental health a priority via SEA 1. SB 1 was the work product of the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission and authored by Senator Mike Crider.
Today, thanks to targeted funding and legislative action, Indiana has climbed to 26th in the national ranking for behavioral health. This improvement has not been by chance, but rather the result of the strategic efforts of the Commission and the Indiana General Assembly. Legislators included a $50 million annual investment in behavioral health in HEA 1001-2023 as well as the building of the behavioral health infrastructure of crisis response, treatment access, and community care in SEA 1. While more is still needed, we have begun to take action.
Behavioral Health Commission wraps up two-year study with $50M ask
One of the most transformative examples is Indiana's 988 Crisis & Suicide Lifeline. This program ensures that Hoosiers can speak to trained crisis counselors 24/7 — people who live here and understand the unique needs of our state. Mental Health America of Indiana is proud to operate one of these call centers, and we've seen call volume grow by 184% in the last year alone.
And behind every statistic is a story. One man called our 988 line literally with a gun to his head. Because of the assistance from the trained crisis counselor who answered, he put the gun down and agreed to safety planning. 'You've literally saved my life,' he said.
He was one — of many. This is the power of action.
Every Hoosier can take action! In May 2025, this Mental Health Month, please take the first step:
Check your own mental health by taking a free, anonymous screening at https://mhascreening.org. It is totally anonymous.
Start conversations with those around you — ask, 'How are you, really?'
Join the movement by advocating for continued state support of Indiana's mental health system, including funding for 988 and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs).
Wear green in support of Mental Health Month and join us in being 'Seen in Green' this May.
Support Mental Health America of Indiana, which provides direct care and statewide advocacy every day. To be part of MHAI, go to: https://www.mhai.net.
The truth is, every Hoosier has the power to turn awareness into action. Whether it's through a phone call, a conversation, or a policy change — you can help build a mentally healthier Indiana.
Please join us to keep moving Indiana forward. Turn your own awareness into action.
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