Mental Health Month
May 30, 2025
Every May, we shine a light on mental health—but this year, it feels more urgent than ever. I've walked alongside individuals and families through some of their most difficult moments, and I've never seen so many people feeling this isolated, anxious, or overlooked.
This month is a reminder that our emotional well-being matters—even as the systems meant to support us are being strained, defunded, or dismantled. It's heartbreaking, and it's personal. Because every funding cut or policy change impacts real people who are left without the care or support they need.
It's not about politics. It's about people—your neighbor, your child's teacher, your cousin, your friend. And maybe, it's about you, too.
As of this writing proposals made by the federal government aim to reduce Medicaid spending by approximately $880 billion over the next decade. These cuts could result in millions of Americans losing access to essential health services, including care for mental health or substance use disorders. As an example, in Michigan alone, over 700,000 residents—nearly 30% of the state's Medicaid beneficiaries—could be affected.
Slicing this a different way, the Trump administration has proposed a $2.67 billion reduction in funding for programs supporting LGBTQ+ communities. This includes cuts to LGBTQ+ health research, HIV/AIDS patient support services, and non-discrimination protections. Such measures disproportionately impact vulnerable populations already at heightened risk for mental health issues.
The Trump administration has also proposed cuts to the budget for naloxone kit training and distribution, which helps prevent drug overdose deaths. This could have a serious impact on recent trends, which have seen a reduction in overdose deaths.
LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly youth, face significantly higher rates of mental health challenges. According to The Trevor Project, 45% of LGBTQ+ high school students reported seriously considering suicide in the past year. Transgender adults also face alarming statistics, with 44% reporting recent suicidal ideation.
These disparities are not inherent but are largely due to societal stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to affirming care. Eliminating specialized support services exacerbates these issues, leaving already marginalized groups even more vulnerable.
HHS apparently plans to reduce enforcement of the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which required insurance companies to offer mental health benefits that were on par with their medical benefits. If insurance companies reduce those benefits as expected, access to affordable care will significantly decline, which will severely impact those who have benefited from the ability to get the mental health and addiction care they need. As a country, we already need more help than we can access, which means that the magnitude of this problem will grow by leaps and bounds. HHS plans to move the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) organization under the newly formed Administration for a Healthy America (AHA), which is also raising concerns about how effective SAMHSA will be. Though it is relatively small, SAMHSA is a critical resource to the mental health and addiction field in terms of data, guidelines, and programming.
All of this, as we said, is having an impact on how people are feeling about the world we live in. This can vary greatly depending on a person’s age, personal history, family, political views, and location. Taking care of ourselves and our mental health is always important, no matter what. In times of uncertainty and change, fostering social connections becomes paramount. Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to increased risks of depression and anxiety. We wrote about loneliness in a previous Insight, talking about how it is increasingly an issue. Engaging in simple acts—like reaching out to a friend, joining a community group, or volunteering—can have profound effects on mental well-being. Stanford Medicine emphasizes that social connection improves physical health and mental and emotional well-being.
Self-awareness and proactive self-care are crucial components of mental health. Regular physical activity has been shown to be highly effective in managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that exercise is an effective treatment for depression, with activities like walking, yoga, and strength training showing significant benefits.
Incorporating movement into daily routines—be it a morning walk, a dance class, or gardening—can serve as a powerful tool in maintaining mental health.
It's imperative to recognize and confront our own biases and the systemic structures that perpetuate stigma. Assumptions based on race, culture, or sexual orientation can hinder access to care and support. By fostering inclusivity and understanding, we can create environments where all individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to support one another. In the face of policy changes and funding cuts, community engagement becomes even more vital. Advocating for equitable access to mental health services, supporting local organizations, and simply checking in on loved ones can make a significant difference.
Let us commit to building a society where mental health is prioritized, support is accessible, and every individual is empowered to thrive.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Support is available 24/7.
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Disclaimer: The contents of HealthACR Insights are intended to provide information we hope you find interesting, timely and useful. We carefully research the topics using reliable, highly regarded sources. Citations are provided. We in no way intend to offer clinical advice that you should use to make treatment decisions. Please consult appropriate professionals. HealthACR, LLC is available to help you identify potential options and find providers to meet your needs.
