Kai Belton

For the past 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) every May to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being.

We are delivering on key legislative priorities this session by addressing specific concerns affecting our Intellectually, Developmentally Disabled (IDD) population, which has been lacking adequate funding and services for far too long.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, I am hosting a Mental Health and Wellness Day Fair at the State Capitol next Tuesday, May 23. The purpose of this event is to spotlight mental health and learn more about this medical condition affecting adults and children in the state.

Members of Connecticut's General Assembly - from both sides of the aisle - are coming together outside of their offices and chambers, in the spirit of bipartisanship, for some fun and good causes.

We are more than halfway through the regular session, and this is the time of year when legislative activity picks up in the Connecticut General Assembly.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and I want you to be aware of the resources available to you in our community. If you need help, you can call (888) 999-5545 anytime to speak with a certified sexual assault crisis counselor in English. Dial (888) 568-8332 to speak with an expert in Spanish.

On Tuesday, the Judiciary Committee voted to approve legislation to reduce gun violence, including mass shootings, community violence, domestic violence, suicides and accidental shootings.

March is Women's History Month and March 8 was International Women's Day. A day to celebrate women who have inspired change throughout history, and recognize those who continue to fight for the fair and equitable treatment of women and girls around the world. I am also thrilled to celebrate the many accomplishments of women in Connecticut and beyond throughout the coming weeks!