State Sen. John Velis Discusses Mental Health Issues at Student Government Meeting

State Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield, visited with Westfield State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) on Tuesday with an aim to promote mental health awareness and wellness. Joined by President Linda Thompson, Velis spoke to the SGA about the obstacles the Commonwealth faces in addressing mental health issues. Velis followed up the meeting with a presentation and question and answer session the following day at Ely Campus Center. 

"Mental health is the biggest challenge we have in Massachusetts," he said. "We need to break down all of these barriers that are influencing mental health. If someone comes to us and is looking for some type of treatment, we are not just treating that one issue, we are treating the other aspects that may have led them to that point." 

He also urged more people to go into behavioral health, emphasizing that the issue of mental health is multifaceted, encompassing substance abuse disorder, the impact of social media on mental health, and the crisis at emergency departments.

Velis’ leadership helped drive passage of the Mental Health ABC ACT 2.0 into Massachusetts law last session. The act works to dismantle barriers for individuals seeking mental health treatment. Along with his role as chairman of the Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Committee, Velis was recently appointed to a national task force on mental health by a group of state government partnerships. The goal of the task force is to identify, discuss, and develop a policy framework to support job seekers and employees with mental health conditions, as well as address the behavioral health care workforce shortage.

At the time of his appointment, Velis said, “I am honored to represent Massachusetts on this national task force and look forward to collaborating with legislators across the country to address the serious mental health challenges our nation is facing.” 

In remarks to the SGA, President Thompson emphasized the university's commitment to responding to issues that impact the health and well-being of its community, considering it an extension of the state-wide support systems. 

"We are committed to providing resources for issues that impact the health and well-being of our communities." She added, "We look forward to working with Senator Velis to ensure everyone who requires mental health assistance receives the support they need. By working together, we can reach our common goals."