NEW YORK STATE — The New York State Office of Mental Health has announced the launch of “Be Well,” a statewide public awareness campaign aimed at helping New Yorkers better understand the importance of mental wellness and the impacts of stress and trauma. The $1.9 million state-funded campaign includes a new website aimed at helping New Yorkers improve their mental well-being, and advertisements on public transportation, billboards, television, radio and other digital media.

“Managing stress and anxiety is every bit as important and transformative to mental health as eating right and exercising can be for our physical health,” OMH Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said. “The Be Well campaign will help New Yorkers recognize the critical role that mental well-being plays in their lives, why it is important to reduce stress and address trauma, and the strategies they can employ to accomplish this goal.”

Mental wellness is an essential component of overall health and quality of life, according to the National Institute for Mental Health. Even small acts of self-care—including lightly exercising for 30 minutes a day, getting enough sleep, and engaging in relaxing activities—can play an important role in managing stress, reducing the risk of illness and increasing energy.

Be Well ads are running in English and Spanish on mediums that include social media, digital platforms, New York City transit, billboards, geofencing, radio and on television. The campaign will include linkages to statewide resources, including NY Connects, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and the New York State Trauma-Informed Network and Resource Center, as well as other resources connected with wellness. 

Constant stress can lead to emotional distress, negatively impact decision making, and ultimately lead to physical health issues. Trauma can have a similar impact, causing excessive stress that manifests in physical symptoms such as headache, upset stomach, racing heartbeat and shallow breathing, ultimately leading to physical illness over time. 

“Many individuals affected by substance use are also impacted by co-occurring mental health disorders, and it is important that we continue to address this critical issue,” Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said. “This campaign offers vital information about how New Yorkers can improve their mental health and where to find help if they need it.”

The launch of Be Well follows a $5 million public awareness campaign to promote the emergency helpline 988, which started in September. The ongoing We Hear You campaign is aimed at raising awareness of 988, which is free, confidential, impartial, and can be accessed any time of the day or night by phone, text or chat. This service provides individuals in need with a connection to trained crisis counselors who can help anyone thinking about suicide, struggling with substance use, experiencing a mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress.