Yingling Works to Improve Access to Mental Health Care, Recognizes Suicide Prevention Month

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – With the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacting the mental health of many Illinoisans, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, is highlighting Suicide Prevention Month to ensure residents are aware of the mental health resources that are available to them.

“Between the prolonged periods of isolation, economic and financial uncertainty, and fear of becoming sick or seeing loved ones become sick, we have all experienced a uniquely difficult year, and with that comes with mental health repercussions,” said Yingling. “Now more than ever, we must ensure that residents have access to the care they need, whether it’s for physical or mental health.”

As part of his efforts to provide relief to residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, Yingling helped pass a number of bills expanding mental health resources for Illinoisans. He co-sponsored legislation that requires health insurance plans to provide coverage for mental health care. He also helped pass legislation that provides additional support to students by giving them up to five excused mental health days per school year.

Residents looking for additional mental health resources are encouraged to visit the Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s website at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/. For those who are currently or know someone who is currently experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

“While we have all taken steps to protect our physical health over the past year and a half, it is important that we are also taking care of our mental health,” said Yingling. “While we have made significant strides in providing residents with mental health resources, there is still more that needs to be done, and I will continue to work in Springfield to ensure all individuals who need mental health care are able to receive the care they deserve.”