May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Since 1949, the month of May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month to promote efforts regarding mental wellness. Green is the designated color for mental health awareness. Just as the green found in nature symbolizes new life and growth, green can also represent the idea that individuals facing mental health challenges can experience recovery, healing, and personal growth.

At CEC Health Care, we believe that mental health is part of comprehensive care. For May 2026, we are observing Mental Health Awareness Month by increasing our commitment to providing access to high-quality and comprehensive medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare.

The Demand for Mental Health Services is Growing

The New York State Office of Mental Health reports that between 2015 and 2023, the number of individuals seeking services from the public mental health system has increased by 21%.

21%
Increase in people seeking services
2015–2023

Adults

31.5%

of New Yorkers reported poor mental health in 2023. This is the most recent date for which data are available. This is up from 26.0% in March 2020

Suicide

49,000+

Number of New York State residents that died by suicide in 2023 (approx. one death every 11 minutes). For more statistics, visit the NYS Department of Health’s suicide and self-harm injury prevention page.

Youth

17%

Of youth ages 12–17 reported a major depressive episode within the past year. About 1 in 4 children (ages 3–17) in NYS have an emotional, behavioral, or developmental condition.

I/DD

19%

Of NY residents with both a mental health and I/DD diagnosis had an intellectual disability and depression.

Seniors

25%

Of older adults in New York have a mental health condition.

Veterans

26%

Of NYS veterans discharged between 2018–2023 had a probable diagnosis of PTSD.

More Statistics for Youth

Depression & Anxiety

37% of young adults in NYS reported frequent anxiety symptoms.
40% reported frequent depression symptoms.
In NYC specifically, nearly half of teens report depressive symptoms.
A newer 2025 NYC report found: ~40% of high school students feel persistent sadness or hopelessness.

Suicide Risk & Severe Distress

1 in 9 adolescents (12–17) in NYS report serious thoughts of suicide each year.
Many youth struggle to access care, and about half of LGBTQ+ youth in NYS could not get needed mental health care.

CEC Health Care is Here to Help

Staff at the CEC Health Care Glen Cove office

In 2025, CEC Health Care conducted over 35,000 mental health visits in our Bethpage, Glen Cove, Seaford and Hauppauge locations.

These services were provided to individuals with behavioral health needs, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other priority populations, including children, older adults, and veterans.

CEC Health Care also provides supportive housing, crisis respite, mobile treatment, and case management services to more than 400 individuals with complex behavioral health needs, helping them live safely and successfully in their communities.

Our Newest Location: Seaford

In 2024, when a mental health clinic in Seaford was closing, CEC Health Care acted quickly to ensure continuity of care for more than 400 individuals at risk of service disruption.

Upon assuming operations, CEC Health Care rapidly stabilized services and expanded access to care by introducing a Chemical Dependence Outpatient Program and launching comprehensive children’s behavioral health services—creating a fully integrated continuum of mental health and substance use care for children, adults, and families.

This expansion strengthened the local service delivery system, improved timely access to age-appropriate treatment, and reduced gaps in care across the community.

In addition, CEC is renovating the clinic to create a welcoming, safe, and trauma-informed environment that promotes healing, dignity, and a sense of belonging for the individuals and families it serves.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Jane D.

Patient

“CEC Health Care changed my life. The support and compassion I received made it possible for me to get back on my feet and feel hopeful again.”

Michael R.

Patient

“The team at CEC truly cares. They took the time to understand my needs and helped me access services I didn’t even know were available.”

HELP US PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE CARE TO MORE PEOPLE

Your gift to CEC Health Care helps support:

Comprehensive behavioral health services for adults, seniors, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Specialized mental health programs for children and families, including early intervention and ongoing support
Substance use disorder treatment, including our Chemical Dependence Outpatient Program
Supportive housing and community-based services for individuals living with mental illness
Integrated, whole-person care, combining mental health, primary care, and care coordination services
Renovation and expansion of our Seaford Clinic, creating a safe, welcoming, and therapeutic environment for healing

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