May is Mental Health Month in Franklin County

The Commissioners proclaimed May as Mental Health Month in Franklin County, urging residents to commit to increasing their understanding of mental health, the steps our residents can take to protect their mental health, and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges that impact everyone's mental health. At the end of June 2020, 40% of adults in the United States reported struggling with mental health or substance use issues (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). 

Members of Franklin/Fulton Mental Health, Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities, and Early Intervention; the Mental Health Association of Franklin and Fulton Counties; as well as the Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers’ Association were present for the reading of the proclamation and to share information on local resources. 

“If you need help, it’s available,” said local advocate Kim Wertz.

Anyone seeking Mental Health, Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities or Early Intervention services, may call 1-717-264-5387 or email mhiddei@franklincountypa.gov.

If you are in crisis and need immediate attention, contact Crisis Intervention Services at 717-264-2555 or 1-866-918-2555.

Other resources available to Pennsylvanians in need of support, include:

- Support & Referral Helpline-toll-free, 24/7 at 1-855-284-2494. For TTY, dial 724-631-5600

- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

- The Spanish-language National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-888-628-9454

- The Mental Health Crisis Text Line: Text “PA” to 741-741

- The Attorney General’s Safe2Say program operates 24/7 and can be reached at 1-844-723-2729 or at www.safe2saypa.org.

The Mental Health Association of Franklin and Fulton Counties (MHAFF) is holding the following Mental Health Month events: May 7 - Annual Wellness Conference; May 14-16 - Art Show; and May 21 - Walk the Walk. To register for an event or for more information call 717-264-4301. For information on services, visit http://www.mhaff.org/programs.

Pictured (left to right): Kim Wertz, Larissa Jacobson, Bethany Peak, Jim Gilbert, Erin Nye, Commissioner John Flannery, Cori Seilhamer, Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller, Commissioner Bob Ziobrowski, Erin Grant, Barry Munch, Dr. Sherri Morgan, and Louis Hockenbroch

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