Governor Newsom declares May as Mental Health Awareness Month

Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom has issued a proclamation declaring May 2025 as "Mental Health Awareness Month."

The proclamation acknowledges the millions of Californians living with mental health conditions and emphasizes the essential role of mental health care in overall well-being. It states, "Mental health care is health care and is critical to our overall well-being."

Governor Newsom highlights the longstanding neglect and underprioritization of mental health care, noting that one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness annually, with more than half not receiving necessary care. He references the closure of state hospitals in the 1960s and how prisons and jails became default mental health facilities. The proclamation also mentions rising suicide rates among Native people, men, veterans, and LGBTQ community members.

California's efforts to revolutionize mental health care are detailed in the proclamation. These include a $6 billion Behavioral Health Bond aimed at creating new treatment beds, housing units, and outpatient treatment slots for homeless individuals with serious mental illnesses and children with depression. Additionally, nearly $1 billion annually is proposed for housing supports and services through the transformed Mental Health Services Act.

The creation of CARE Court is noted as a nation-leading model providing services to those with untreated severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Furthermore, California has modernized its conservatorship system to ensure effective support for those in need.

Governor Newsom stresses the importance of preventative care before crises occur: "We’re also committed to preventative care and conversation before mental health conditions hit a crisis point." He mentions California’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health which aims to improve access to treatment services for children, parents, and communities.

The proclamation encourages Californians to recognize when these tools are needed: "Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to check in with themselves and with their loved ones." Governor Newsom urges all residents to learn about available help at mentalhealth.ca.gov.

Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on May 14th, 2025, this proclamation was attested by Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., Secretary of State.