On April 30, 2026, the North Carolina Medical Journal (NCMJ) published its first issue of 2026, “Mental Health Throughout the Lifespan,” bringing together experts from across North Carolina to examine the state’s evolving behavioral health needs and opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and systems change.

Guest edited by Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, NCDHHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, the issue brief explores how mental health affects North Carolinians from childhood through older adulthood and highlights strategies to strengthen prevention, treatment, recovery, and community support systems statewide.

“We are in an age of discovery and rapid evolution when it comes to supporting people with their mental health,” said Crosbie. “Stigmas and fear are being replaced with understanding as we build a comprehensive system of care that is grounded in evidence, centered on people, and focused on easy access to timely, appropriate treatment. One in four people will experience a mental health condition during their lifetime. Mental health conditions are treatable, and these people can and should live full, connected, and productive lives in their communities.”

The issue arrives at a time increasing demand for mental health services, workforce shortages, and disparities in access to care. Articles featured in the issue cover a range of topics, including mobile crisis response, immigrant mental health, suicide prevention, prison reentry, and child welfare. The full issue of the NCMJ is available online at www.ncmedicaljournal.com.