By: Michael Gordon, Communications Coordinator

May is an important month for several of the NHC’s member groups that specialize in mental health advocacy. Here is a look at what those organizations have planned for Mental Health Awareness month as they advocate for the millions of Americans live with a mental health condition every day.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) 

• The AFSP is preparing for its 13th Annual Advocacy Forum, taking place from June 6-7. The Advocacy Forum brings together AFSP volunteer Field Advocates from across the country to make their voices heard for suicide prevention and mental health. Advocates are joined by members of Congress, and policy experts to learn about legislation that can save lives. Registration can be found here.

Mental Health America (MHA)

• The MHA wants volunteers to help photograph 70 landmarks, which are lit in green across the nation for Mental Health Awareness Month. Green is the official color of mental health awareness. Volunteers should tag @MentalHealthAmerica on social media. View a list of landmarks here.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

• NAMI recently celebrated the introduction of the bipartisan 988 Implementation Act (R. 7116), which seeks to provide support for states and counties in building local crisis response infrastructure ahead of the launch of the three-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) in July 2022. Currently, 14 states have enacted 988 legislation, which the NAMI 988 State Bill Tracker monitors.

For more information about NHC membership, click here.