NY A05563

Expands New York's mental health public education initiative from focusing primarily on veterans to targeting the general public and underserved populations including Black and Latino adolescents, LGBTQ individuals, persons of Asian descent, veterans, and rural community residents

Requires the Commissioner of Mental Health to collaborate with the Office of Addiction Services and Supports, Department of Veterans' Services, and Department of Agriculture and Markets to develop the anti-stigma program

Program goals include reducing stigma and misinformation about mental illness, improving understanding of symptoms for mental health and substance use disorders, and promoting awareness of effective treatments and available resources

Authorizes use of public forums, social media, and mass media including internet, radio, and print advertising, plus educational materials on the Office of Mental Health website

Mandates consultation with local community stakeholders, consumer advocates, and local organizations to ensure programs are culturally and linguistically appropriate for each underserved population