Happening now: NYS Assembly Legislative hearing looking at the impact COVID-19 had on those with mental illnesses and those with developmental disabilities

Office of Mental Health reported that due to regulatory and billing flexibility changes, telehealth claims from licensed Office of Mental Health clinics increased from 35% in March 2020 to 90% in April 2020. Working to make these changes permanent

According to CDC study:
- 40% of adults had at least 1 adverse mental health condition as a result of the pandemic
- 13% started/increased drug use as result of pandemic
- 30% of adults reported anxiety/depression as a result of the pandemic
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Results of CDC study continued:
- 50% of health care workers reported mental health issues such as anxiety and depression from the pandemic
- Each percentage point increase in unemployment results in 1.6% increase in suicide rate or 775 Americans each year

On March 25, NY set up an "Emotional Support Helpline." It has responded to more than 27,000 calls so far

Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther points out how there is no money in the budget to expand some of these mental health services. The Office of Mental Health did apply for $130 million from FEMA to expand some of these services in upstate regions

Commissioner of the Office of Mental Health Anne Sullivan emphasizes how the state "withholding" 20% of its funds (until fed aid arrives) is impacting the program.

"Just as an example you know there was a 20% cut. Whoop not cut! 'Withhold' to local aid at this point in time."