Mental Health Peer Appreciation Week.
The resolution acknowledges the essential role of peers in encouraging and supporting others along their recovery journeys. It emphasizes the need for peers to engage with local, state, and federal decision-makers, ensuring their insights inform policies that directly affect access to mental health services. This appreciation week is particularly timely as California works to transform its behavioral health care system, as outlined in the Behavioral Health Services Act, and aims to address the current workforce shortage in this field.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 23 (ACR23), introduced by Assembly Member Quirk-Silva, seeks to establish the third week of May 2025 as Mental Health Peer Appreciation Week in California. This resolution aims to recognize the contributions of peers—individuals who have experienced mental or behavioral health challenges themselves—and their vital role in promoting recovery and wellness. By designating this week, ACR23 aims to highlight the importance of peer support and the lived experiences that can enhance understanding within mental health services.
While ACR23 focuses on appreciation and recognition, there may be underlying contention related to resource allocation and the integration of peer specialists into existing mental health frameworks. Some stakeholders may have differing views on how best to utilize peer support in practice, and discussions could arise regarding the funding and training of Medi-Cal peer support specialists, who are crucial in bridging gaps in services. Overall, this resolution is proactive in promoting a supportive atmosphere for mental health advocacy but will require commitment from all levels of government and society to fully realize its goals.