Upcoming Events

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It was established in 1949 to spread awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing, destigmatize mental illness and advocate for more resources and support. 

This year, the Newton Health & Human Services Department in partnership with Older Adult Services, the Newton Free Library, the Newton Youth Commission & Advisory Board and the Newton Public Schools, are offering a series of free events to address mental health across the lifespan.

Below are local resources that can help residents struggling with mental health or substance use. The City of Newton’s Social Services Division can help you navigate these services. Call 617-796-1420 to connect with us.

Riverside Emergency Services - Riverside is a local resource that offers mobile crisis intervention. Call 800-529-5077 for support.



988 Crisis Support – If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to talk with a trained counselor or chat online.

Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) – If you are struggling with mental health or substance use, the new behavioral health helpline connects Massachusetts residents directly to clinical support where and when they need it. It’s free, available 24/7, and offers real-time interpretation in over 200 languages. Call or text 833-773-2445 or chat online.

Support for Kids & Teens

May 4^th – 10^th is Children’s Mental Health Week. Youth and young adults can access the mental health resources above, as well as youth-centered support below.

“Hey Sam," by Samaritans, Inc. - a dedicated peer-to-peer texting service for people up to 24 years old. Designed for and staffed by young people, Hey Sam allows youth to reach peers if they are struggling, need someone to talk to, or need support. Volunteers ages 15 - 24 will be responding to the messages that come in through this line, available from 9 am - 9 pm every day. Text 439-726 and check them out at Hey Sam.

Call for Queer and Allied Vendors, Artists & Performers!

We’re looking for passionate vendors, talented artists, and energetic performers to be part of our Celebration of Queer Culture event on June 28th! Whether you sell handmade goods, showcase creative art, or light up the stage with music, dance, or spoken word, we want to hear from you. Come share your talent and connect with a vibrant, diverse audience. Apply now! Application deadline is June 1^st. Questions? Email cqc@newtonma.gov.

Asian American, Native Hawaiian

and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage (AANHPI) Month is an annual celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of people of Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. This year's theme is "A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience." This theme celebrates the hard work and perseverance of AANHPI leaders who have laid the groundwork for future generations to thrive. It acknowledges their contributions in various fields and highlights the importance of their leadership. 

Water Safety Month

As Memorial Day approaches and swimming season begins, it's crucial to stay alert and informed about water safety. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly; sometimes in just 20 seconds. It only takes a few minutes for a tragedy to occur. Take steps now to protect your loved ones and help prevent drownings.

High Blood Pressure Education Month

Understanding your personal risk for high blood pressure is very important. While some risk factors, like unhealthy lifestyle habits, can be changed. Other risk factors, like age, family history and genetics, race and ethnicity, and sex, cannot be changed.  Get your blood pressure checked and find out what puts you at risk.

Health and Human Services

1000 Commonwealth Ave

Room 107A

Newton, MA 02459

health@newtonma.gov

(617) 796-1420