MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Mental health advocates on Wednesday made their annual appeal to Vermont lawmakers for expanded resources.
Officials say mental health challenges — especially among youth — are rising at an alarming rate and that mental health needs to be a focus in policy decisions.
“We must invest in programs and workforce initiatives that make quality mental health care accessible. This means strengthening community-based services, expanding our telehealth options even more, and addressing the critical shortage of mental health professionals in our state,” said Rep. Daisy Berbeco, D-Chittenden 21.
Advocates urged lawmakers to also address the need for early intervention in schools and expand crisis support services.