The $1.9 trillion stimulus package includes $5 billion for mental health programs and providers and should be released now to help those struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Monday said. 

The money was included in the stimulus package last month amid widespread concerns over the long-term mental health effects of the pandemic, which has left hundreds of thousands of people dead across the country, spike unemployment and upended everyday life. 

“What many New Yorkers are saying right now is that the pandemic has taken such a mental toll that some of them need more help than others to overcome new challenges and struggles related to their mental health and happiness," Schumer said. “In fact, New York’s increased mental health struggles are an overall silent, but devastating effect of this pandemic with three times more people than last year reporting the onset of symptoms like depression, anxiety and more. Untreated, these conditions can lead to dangerous spirals that upend lives and families. That is why we need a quick release of the $5 billion in fed funds secured as part of the American Rescue Plan to beat back this surge in need and give patients and providers more help.”  

The money would be released by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Mental Health Services Administration. 

As part of the plan, the money includes $3 billion for mental health and substance block grants which can, in turn, be used to strengthen mental health prevention and support community-based programs and organizations. 

Funds are also available for community-based groups for screening, day treatment programs, emergency services and outpatient treatment. Additional funding would be made available for youth mental health services and mobile crisis intervention services.