Governor Ayotte Highlights Progress and Opportunities in Strengthening Mental Health System

CONCORD, N.H. - Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte joined NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Susan Stearns and Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Lori Weaver for a fireside chat to kick off NAMI New Hampshire's annual conference.

The discussion focused on progress made in strengthening New Hampshire's mental health system, challenges left to address, and opportunities to expand mental health care through the Rural Transformation Grant program.

"Over the last year, we've taken important steps to strengthen our mental health system, from fully funding our community mental health centers, to supporting programs for Granite Staters in recovery and more," said Governor Ayotte. "We have a critical opportunity with New Hampshire's Rural Health Transformation Program to expand access to care, grow our mental health care workforce, and ensure our neighbors who are battling mental health challenges or recovering from substance use disorder get the support they need. I was glad to join NAMI New Hampshire and Commissioner Weaver this morning to discuss how we can continue our progress toward a healthier future for everyone in our state."

"The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services is committed to building a healthier future for Granite Staters, and mental health is at the core of that mission," said DHHS Commissioner Weaver. "Whether it's our Mission Zero initiative to eliminate emergency department boarding or our work to expand behavioral health services in rural areas through GO-NORTH, DHHS will continue working with Governor Ayotte and partners like NAMI New Hampshire to tackle our current challenges and make the most of future opportunities."

"New Hampshire's leaders recognize the critical importance of mental health and suicide prevention," said NAMI New Hampshire Executive Director Stearns. "NAMI New Hampshire was grateful to Governor Ayotte and NH DHHS Commissioner Weaver for joining an important discussion on these topics today. Despite a challenging budget environment, Governor Ayotte and DHHS have prioritized key services for mental health and substance use disorder treatment and recovery. While significant challenges remain, we are committed to our collective partnership to help Granite Staters find help and hold onto hope even in their darkest moments. You are not alone."

The budget Governor Ayotte signed into law last year fully funded uncompensated care at community mental health centers, sustained funding for the 9-8-8 crisis lifeline, and supported programs that help Granite Staters in recovery from substance use disorders, including the Doorways and Recovery Friendly Workplace programs. New Hampshire also received the largest Rural Health Transformation Grant Award in New England and has made expanding access to mental health services a critical pillar of the State's program.