Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Behavioral Health (BBH) is aligning with national initiatives to recognize January as Mental Wellness Month. This month is dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, emotional well-being, and encouraging residents of West Virginia to seek assistance when necessary.

Mental Wellness Month aims to emphasize the importance of good mental health by raising awareness, reducing stigma, and sharing practical strategies for self-care. It also focuses on supporting those who may be experiencing difficulties. Mental wellness involves understanding one's emotional health, building strong relationships, and developing resilience to face life's challenges.

"As we observe Mental Wellness Month, we encourage all West Virginians to take active steps toward prioritizing their mental health and overall well-being," stated Nicholas Stuchell, DoHS Bureau for Behavioral Health Interim Commissioner. "Mental wellness is just as vital as physical health, and reaching out for help is a powerful act of self-care and strength."

DoHS funds and promotes several programs designed to assist individuals and families in maintaining mental wellness:

- HELP4WV: A 24/7 helpline offering support for individuals dealing with mental health or addiction issues. Funded by DoHS, HELP4WV connects callers to treatment options and community resources tailored to their needs, including referrals to crisis counseling services. Assistance can be accessed via call, text, or chat at 1-844-HELP4WV or by visiting help4wv.com.

- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: This national lifeline provides 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who assist individuals in emotional distress or facing mental health or substance use crises. Contact can be made by calling or texting 988 or visiting wv988.org for online chat support. Veterans have the option of pressing option 1 for specialized assistance. WV988 is funded by DoHS’s BBH with a federal grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

- Community Behavioral Health Resources: DoHS’s BBH funds numerous local initiatives and programs aimed at supporting mental wellness across the state. More information can be found at dhhr.wv.gov/bbh.

"Our mental health is a cornerstone of overall wellness, and prioritizing it should be part of our everyday lives," said Christina Mullins, DoHS Deputy Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. "We are committed to ensuring that every West Virginian has access to the tools and resources they need to navigate life’s challenges and thrive."

To bolster mental health services in West Virginia, DoHS supports programs focused on recruiting and retaining behavioral health professionals. Career opportunities are available at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wv.