Gov. JB Pritzker joined health officials Wednesday to discuss the state's ongoing efforts to address youth mental health challenges. [Health News Illinois]

“Mental health will be defined as one of the most impactful issues of our time, and I am committed to ensuring Illinoisans can access the care they deserve,” Pritzker said. “As we continue to develop new policies to protect and support our people, it’s vital to hear from youth across the state about their unique experiences and uplift their voices.”

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Among the state efforts highlighted include the creation of the Division of Mental Health and Recovery within the Department of Human Services to unify mental health and substance use prevention programs.

Illinois has also appointed Dana Weiner as the chief officer for Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation, who has helped to launch a statewide portal to connect families with youth mental health services.

The state is also working to implement free universal mental health screenings in Illinois public schools by the 2027 school year.

“Young people across Illinois are facing real mental health challenges, and it’s our responsibility to make sure support is accessible, coordinated, and centered around their needs,” Weiner said. “Bringing partners together in this way helps ensure students and families can get connected to the right supports.”

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