Gov. Brad Little will headline the speakers gathered Friday, May 3, from 1-3 p.m. at the Idaho Capitol to update the public about the state of the behavioral health system in Idaho. The event will also feature presentations by behavioral health caregivers and professionals.
Attendance is available in person at the Lincoln Auditorium or via live stream on Idaho Public Television.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States, and Mental Health Month in Idaho. It represents a time to raise awareness of and reduce the stigma surrounding behavioral health needs, as well as highlighting the unique resources we have across the state.
The event is being sponsored by the Division of Behavioral Health at the Department of Health and Welfare (DHW).
“By fostering a culture of understanding and support, we not only uplift people navigating their own mental health journeys but also strengthen the fabric of our communities,” said Division of Behavioral Health Administrator Ross Edmunds. “As we gather to shed light on the state of our behavioral health system in Idaho, I hope we recognize that awareness isn’t just a momentary act but a lifelong commitment.”
Guest speakers on Friday will address the state of the behavioral health system in Idaho, its changes, and its challenges. They’ll include members of the Idaho Behavioral Health Planning Council, Magellan of Idaho, Empower Idaho, NAMI Idaho, FYIdaho, the Northwest PANDAs/PANS Network, and DHW.
Date: May 3
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Lincoln Auditorium, Idaho State Capitol
Stream: https://www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoinsession/ww02/
Link to register: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=c8g5NsM7pEKnLMNnQnsff3IT-ZS_XYlHhcddfQZ6HOhUMEJZQURDQTM0OERBWEFONUM4OFNTV0YwRS4u
Speakers will include:
Gov. Brad Little
Ross Edmunds, Division of Behavioral Health administrator
David Welsh, Magellan of Idaho CEO
Alejandra del Toro & Eden Kouski, Empower Idaho
Rep. Chris Mathias, District 18B
Beth Markley, NAMI Idaho executive director
Brenda Wilson, FYIdaho executive director
Rick Huber, Idaho Behavioral Health Planning Council
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.