Spokane County declares May 2025 as Behavioral Health Awareness Month

Spokane County has officially declared May 2025 as Behavioral Health Awareness Month, a significant move aimed at addressing the pressing mental health needs of the community. During a recent legislative meeting, the Spokane County Board of Commissioners unanimously passed the proclamation, highlighting the critical importance of accessible mental health resources and community support.

The proclamation underscores alarming statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health, revealing that over 20% of American adults and 25% of adolescents face diagnosed mental or behavioral health disorders. In Spokane County alone, more than 18% of residents reported experiencing poor mental health for 14 or more days within a month in 2022. This data reinforces the need for early intervention and robust support systems.

Commissioners expressed their gratitude to behavioral health professionals and crisis responders who tirelessly serve individuals and families facing these challenges. The board emphasized its commitment to expanding treatment services and advocating for sustainable funding to meet the community's behavioral health needs.

Community Services Director Justin Johnson, along with representatives from the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Behavioral Health Advisory Board, spoke passionately about the importance of this proclamation. Chantal Lisky, NAMI Spokane's Executive Director, noted that the recognition helps combat stigma, sending a powerful message that those struggling with mental health issues are not alone.

Kim Taylor, chair of the Behavioral Health Advisory Board, echoed this sentiment, urging the community to engage in open conversations about mental health and to educate themselves to reduce stigma. The meeting concluded with a call for collective action to support individuals affected by behavioral health conditions, reinforcing Spokane County's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.