Monday’s event was meant to elevate lived experience, celebrate recovery and advocate for the support and resources that strengthen communities across the state.
HARRISBURG, Pa. — State officials and hundreds of mental health advocates spoke at the Pennsylvania State Capitol on Monday as part of Mental Health Advocacy Day.
The event was meant to elevate lived experience, celebrate recovery and advocate for the support and resources that strengthen communities across the Commonwealth.
Speakers at the event included Rep. Jennifer O’Mara (D-Delaware), Deputy Secretary of the Department of Human Services’ Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Jen smith and President and CEO of RCPA Richard Edley, PhD.
Organizers say Mental Health Advocacy Day is needed to help state lawmakers understand the importance of mental health resources.
“We believe that that happens through the voice of lived experience perspective, and the only way that representatives know that perspective is if we bring them out and help them understand that perspective. And so, that’s the point of today,” said organizer Jessica Paul.
Advocates also marched around the Capitol Complex to show their support for mental health funding and services.