Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch reacted to Thursday’s announcement that nearly $110 million in public and private funding will be issued soon to bolster the campaign to reduce mental health and addiction issues in Indiana.
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s (FSSA) Division of Mental Health and Addiction is administering the release of both state and federal funds.
Crouch
“Today’s announcement that $109.8 million is being allocated in the near future to fight the mental health and addiction crisis in Indiana is great news,” Crouch said. “In our post-pandemic world, mental health issues have exploded around the country, and Indiana is no exception. This money is desperately needed.
“I’m also happy to see that some of the public and private funds are being dedicated to attracting more professionals to the mental health field. Throughout the industry, there are staffing shortages at facilities and a lack of qualified doctors. For us to truly make an impact, we need to get more people involved in this battle.”
In the press conference announcing the funding and grants, FSSA Secretary Dan Rusyniak, M.D., thanked Governor Eric Holcomb and Lt. Governor Crouch for their support in the fight against mental health and addiction issues. In 2021, Lt. Governor Crouch launched the Indiana Roundtable on Mental Health, which she co-chairs with former Eli Lilly CEO John Lechleiter. She formed the Roundtable to address what she considers one of Indiana’s biggest challenges – mental health and addiction.
“One in five Hoosiers struggle with mental health and addiction issues, yet many aren’t sure where to turn for help,” Crouch said. “We all know someone impacted by mental health issues and addiction. So, I’m also excited to see the launch of 988 will take place this weekend. Now, Hoosiers experiencing mental health-related distress may call 988 to connect to a trained specialist. This is a much-needed service.”