Salem Highlights Ongoing Efforts to Support Youth and Community Well-Being
SALEM – May is recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to elevate the importance of mental well-being and to break the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Mayor Dominick Pangallo and the City of Salem join this effort by reaffirming their commitment to supporting the mental health needs of individuals and families across the community.
This month and beyond, the City continues to invest in innovative, collaborative approaches to care—particularly for young people. One of the leading efforts is the Salem Youth Mental Health Task Force, launched in partnership with the Justice Resource Institute (JRI). This initiative was established in the Fall of 2024 and brings together schools, mental health providers, and state agencies to address the increasing mental health needs of Salem’s youth in a unified, proactive way. Led by Sarah Roy, Director of the Salem Children’s Alliance, and facilitated by Stephanie Sladen, Executive Director of Children’s Friend & Family Services (JRI), the Task Force works to build partnerships, identify resource gaps, and create more equitable, accessible systems of care. It aims to center youth and family voices, support caregivers, and ensure that all young people in Salem have the opportunity to thrive.
The Turn Awareness into Action theme was chosen for 2025 with the goal of celebrating “the progress we’ve made in recognizing the importance of mental health—and challenging us to turn understanding into meaningful steps toward change.”
“We know that mental health is foundational to the strength of our community,” said Mayor Pangallo. “This Task Force is an example of what can happen when people and organizations come together with a shared commitment to our youth.”
The City of Salem encourages all residents to take time this month to learn more about mental health, check in on one another, and access available resources. Together, we can foster a healthier, more connected Salem for all.
If you or someone you know is in need of mental health support, the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) is available 24/7, 365 days a year—including holidays. The BHHL connects individuals directly to clinical help, even if you’re unsure of the kind of support you need.Call or text 833-773-2445 (BHHL) for free, confidential assistance.
Real-time interpretation is available in 200+ languages.
For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, contact MassRelay at 711 or use your preferred video relay or caption provider to connect with a BHHL staff member.
