To commemorate the two-year anniversary of the American Rescue Plan, second gentleman Doug Emhoff and the U.S. Department of Health joined Gov. Kathy Hochul and SOMOS to discuss the importance of access to mental health care.

Emhoff says that combatting the ongoing mental health crisis starts with a change in perception.

"Part of the problem, as we know, has been that stigma," said Emhoff. "[It] has prevented people from obtaining the lifesaving treatment they so desperately need."

mhoff says that suicide rates are on the rise, particularly in Latino communities. The governor's 2024 budget is investing $1 billion into mental health. On Friday, Hochul announced another $10 million for youth and family behavioral health services.

"The opportunity to have culturally sensitive and relevant professionals makes all the difference in the world," said Hochul. "They're more likely to open up not just for mental health services, but all services."

The federal government is also joining in the fight against the mental health crisis by providing $25 million to school-based services.

A new minority health fellowship program will invest $15 million to give more health care professionals the chance to practice in underserved areas.