2025 News Releases

The Missouri Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families has launched a redesigned Missouri Buddy Check 22 Day webpage to help prevent suicides in the military community.

On August 28, 2020, legislation went into effect establishing the twenty-second day of each month in Missouri as "Buddy Check 22 Day" to promote education and awareness of the problems of suicide facing military personnel.

“Supporting Missouri’s past and present service members—and ensuring they, their friends, and families have access to the resources they need—remains a top priority of our administration,” said Governor Kehoe. “The newly redesigned Buddy Check 22 Day webpage reflects that commitment and reminds us that even a simple call or message can save a life.”

The redesigned webpage offers a wide range of short videos to explain how all Missourians can participate in a “Buddy Check.”  Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe shares what Missouri Buddy Check 22 Day is and how Missourians can be a part of it. Other videos include, How to Conduct a Meaningful Check In, Connecting to Care, Self-Care, Learning More About Preventing Suicide, and Identifying Your Stress Levels & How it Impacts What You Do.

Missouri Governor’s Challenge team is a nonpartisan state interagency team created to collaborate, plan, and implement suicide prevention best practices and policies for service members, Veterans, and their families across the state.

The Missouri Governor’s Challenge team consists of members from the Governor’s Office, Department of Mental Health, Missouri Veterans Commission, Office of the State Courts Administrator, Missouri National Guard, Department of Corrections, Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development, American Legion - Missouri, Compass Health Network, Missouri AgrAbility, Missouri Behavioral Health Council, Missouri Institute of Mental Health - Safer Homes Collaborative, Missouri Suicide Prevention Network, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Missouri Primary Care Association, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

View the new Missouri Buddy Check webpage and stay connected on Facebook, X, & Instagram: @MOGovChallenge.  For more information contact info@mogovchallenge.com. This release is a joint effort between the Missouri Department of Mental Health and the Missouri Veterans Commission.

In response to the tornados experienced on May 16, 2025, the Show Me Hope Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) grant will fund psychological services to help build hope and resiliency in St. Louis and Sikeston area survivors. Show Me Hope crisis counselors will teach coping and stress management skills to anyone dealing with anxiety and uncertainty from the disasters, as well as provide educational materials and resources.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded the CCP grant to the Department of Mental Health (DMH) this week to deliver outreach services through the participating Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs): Bootheel Behavioral Health, BJC Behavioral Health, People’s Health Center, Places for People, and Queen of Peace. The St. Louis Health Department along with Freedom Community Center, InPower Institute, and Restorative Justice Movement will also participate.

Individuals and families impacted by the disaster, known as FEMA 4877, who live in Scott County, St. Louis County, and City of St. Louis will have access to Show Me Hope services.

Show Me Hope crisis counselors will connect survivors with local mental health resources. However, any Missourian experiencing stress or emotional strain because of the disasters can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-985-5990.

The CCP is a short-term disaster relief program funded by FEMA to assist individuals and families in recovery from disasters through the following goals:

• Reach large numbers of people affected by disasters through face-to-face outreach to shelters, homes, community events and other locations,
• Assess the emotional needs of survivors and make referrals to traditional behavioral health services when necessary
• Identify tangible needs and link survivors to community resources and disaster relief services
• Provide emotional support, education, basic crisis counseling, and connection to familial and community support systems
• Train and educate CCP staff and other community partners about disaster reactions, appropriate interventions, and CCP services
• Develop partnerships with local disaster and other organizations
• Work with local stakeholders to promote community resilience and recovery
• Collect and evaluate data to ensure quality services and justify program efforts
• Leave behind a permanent legacy of improved coping skills, educational and resource materials, and enhanced community connections.

For local assistance, contact the Show Me Hope CMHC below:

• Scott County:  Bootheel Behavioral Health - 573-471-0800
• St. Louis County:  BJC Behavioral Health - 314-747-7491
• St. Louis City:
  • People’s Health Center: assisting children under 18 - 314-367-7848
  • Places for People: assisting the uninsured and unhoused - 314-535-5600
• Queen of Peace: assisting women and families - 314-531-0511
• St. Louis Health Department – 314-657-1585,
  • Freedom Community Center – 314-827-3837,
  • InPower Institute – 314-833-9312,
  • Restorative Justice Movement – 314-391-9188.

Sheila Wunning says she's loved every job she's had in her 30 years of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

However, she's concerned that career advancement might separate her from work with those individuals. In May, she became director of the developmental disabilities division at the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Through her first 5½ months on the job, Wunning said she's enjoyed her work and has been relieved that personal interaction with staff and patients is still the forefront of her responsibilities.

"You get a bit spoiled when that happens," Wunning said while discussing her job history, which includes her joining the department in 2017. "I was a little bit worried that I would not have as much opportunity to connect with individuals and families and employees. ... I think I have been able to find ways to make sure I'm continuing to connect."

One way Wunning has made sure to interact with her employees across the state is through "coffee chats." Wunning visits state-operated mental health facilities or regional offices to meet employees bi-monthly and hosts online meetings at the same time.

"I've been finding even more joy in it than I thought," Wunning said. "I do feel that I have a lot of opportunities to impact the direction of this division. I'm very excited about it."

Wunning is focusing on efficiency and sustainability going forward. She said her division has seen significant improvements in the number of individuals who are unnecessarily institutionalized through multiple department efforts. Now Wunning and her staff will start digging into which initiatives are getting the most return on investment.

"I think we're in a great place now to really analyze what's working well and where we're seeing the greatest returns -- and then really focus our effort on expanding those supports," Wunning said.

Supports include more active community resources and care for individuals with developmental disabilities. Much of the care her division gives is done in a patient's home, which removes both institutional pressures and stigmas and allows for better care, Wunning said.

Wunning said her career, where she spent the bulk of her time serving those with disabilities in St. Louis, has always focused on individualized care. She plans to keep that as a priority for her division.

"When it comes down to what services individuals need, it really is based off that interaction with the individual and that person's inner planning process," Wunning said. "I think that's one of the things I've really enjoyed about working in the field of (developmental disabilities) is that everything we do is person-centered."

Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine green beginning at sunrise on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, until sunrise on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month and May 4 - 10, 2025, as Children’s Mental Health Week.

“It’s important to talk about mental health and the resources that are available for Missourians who need help and support,” Governor Kehoe said. “You are not alone if you struggle with mental health challenges. Our administration, in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Mental Health, is focused on sharing resources and improving access to treatment.”

This week, Governor Kehoe will proclaim May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Missouri, and May 4 - 10, 2025, as Children’s Mental Health Week. Approximately one in six children and youth have a diagnosable mental illness, and around 50 percent of individuals with lifetime mental health challenges first experience symptoms by age 14.

“May is a great time to shine a light on the importance of mental health,” said Missouri Department of Mental Health Director, Valerie Huhn. “We're proud to see the Capitol dome lighted green this year for mental health awareness as we continue to share resources and support for Missourians.”

If you are thinking about suicide, are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or are worried about a friend or loved one, call, text, or chat with the Missouri 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Photos of the Capitol lighted green will be available on Governor Kehoe's Flickr Page. 

Three remarkable Missourians who have overcome mental health challenges will be celebrated on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the Mental Health Champions’ Banquet hosted by the Missouri Mental Health Foundation (MMHF).  The event will take place at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City and recognize the following Champions: Roger Koch of Joplin, Alfred Long, Sr., of St. Louis, and Duane Gruis of Florissant. MMHF will also present a “Lasting Legacy” award at the banquet to former U.S. Senator Roy Blunt for his national advocacy of mental health initiatives.

“These individual Champions have meaningful roles in their communities and promote the importance of self-determination, recovery, and education about mental health,” said Katie Andrews, Executive Director of MMHF. “Their personal stories and accomplishments are inspiring.”

Roger Koch

Roger Koch is an extraordinary advocate for mental health.  During his 20-year military career he faced many challenges including active combat and then returned home with symptoms of PTSD.  After years of trying to manage his PTSD himself, he eventually reached out for help.  Today, he is the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) overseeing the Ozark Center’s Veteran Integration Program (VIP). Roger has profoundly impacted the lives of countless veterans across Southwest Missouri. He demonstrates a unique combination of competence, humility and authenticity. By openly sharing his own mental health journey, he provides hope and encouragement to those facing similar struggles. His tireless work ensures that veterans feel seen, supported and empowered to pursue recovery.

Alfred Long, Sr.

Alfred Long’s transformative journey is an inspiration to others. Alfred struggled with addiction at the age of 12 but is grateful to have overcome that addiction and has now been sober for more than 24 years. He has taken his experience to inspire others and help them overcome similar challenges. Alfred continues to devote countless hours to leading recovery sessions, offering counsel and supporting others through his nonprofit, Jacob’s Ladder Ministries.  He has authored three books, and exemplifies resilience and service, inspiring hope and change in the lives of countless individuals. His work stands as a testament to the power of recovery, compassion and community.

Duane Gruis

Duane Gruis empowers, transforms and advocates for the lives of individuals with disabilities. Born with cerebral palsy, he has experienced firsthand many of the struggles and barriers. Duane is currently a member of UCP Heartland’s Family Navigator and Client Support team where he works tirelessly to promote accessibility, inclusion and self-advocacy. Whether Duane is mentoring clients, speaking at public events or engaging with lawmakers, his dedication and passion are evident in every initiative he undertakes. Duane’s goal is to continue to empower individuals with disabilities to take control of their lives, advocate for their needs, and actively participate in their communities.

Lasting Legacy – U.S. Senator Roy Blunt

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt represented Missouri for 12 years in the U.S. Senate and 14 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. He has the distinction of being one of only two Americans in congressional history to be elected to leadership positions by his colleagues in both the House and the Senate. In the Senate, Blunt led the Presidential Inaugural Committees for the 45th and 46th Presidents of the United States and championed record increases for health research and mental health access. Blunt was pivotal to the expansion of behavioral health services across the nation including the Excellence in Mental Health Act and the Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers model of care.  MMHF is pleased to celebrate his Lasting Legacy.

The Department of Mental Health (DMH) is pleased to announce Sheila Wunning as the new Director of its Division of Developmental Disabilities (DD), effective May 1, 2025.

Ms. Wunning has been a part of the DMH - DD team since 2017 but has more than 25 years of experience serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Missouri. She began her DD career began at an SB40 Board for the City of St. Louis and then joined the St. Louis Office for Developmental Disability Resources. She held a variety of positions of progressive responsibility where she developed a vast knowledge of both Targeted Case Management (TCM) and Home and Community Based Services waivers.

Ms. Wunning joined DMH as the Superintendent of the St. Louis Developmental Disabilities Treatment Center, which allowed her to gain an understanding of DD state operated services, facilities, division budgets and federal regulations. She has worked collaboratively with state and local agencies and has successfully built partnerships with stakeholders. Ms. Wunning demonstrates a deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Ms. Wunning has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She is a proven leader with a record of implementing change to promote growth, maximize efficiency and maintain service quality.

Ms. Wunning is replacing Jessica Bax who was named Director of the Department of Social Services by Governor Kehoe in January 2025. 

The Missouri Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Council has a new Coordinator for the state. Deputy Josh Stockman, with the Cole County Sheriff’s Department, is taking on this role after serving as the CIT Training Specialist and assisting with updating training curricula to ensure consistent statewide CIT training.

Stockman will provide oversight of Missouri’s nationally recognized CIT program, including managing the day-to-day aspects of the program, implementing and sustaining the CIT program, and providing direction and support for training, curriculum, and program expansion. 

The purpose of CIT is to address the challenges that often arise when law enforcement officers encounter individuals with behavioral health conditions in crisis situations. 

Deputy Stockman’s new coordinator position is effective April 1, 2025, after a thorough search and interview process with several highly qualified candidates. The Department of Mental Health (DMH) appreciates the support of the MO CIT Council, the Missouri Behavioral Health Council, the Cole County Sheriff’s Department, and the Stockman family.  DMH is confident that CIT will continue to expand and thrive under his leadership.

For more information contact Deputy Josh Stockman at 573-634-4626 ext. 142.

The Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) is the lead agency for reporting opioid settlement expenditures. The Second Annual Report was released on March 3, 2025.

Section 196.1050 RSMo., established the Opioid Addiction Treatment and Recovery Fund, into which all monetary proceeds are deposited for the State of Missouri’s share of settlement distributions.  According to the Memorandum of Understanding between the State of Missouri, the state’s political subdivisions and the national opioid settlement administrators, each recipient of settlement funds must provide the General Assembly with reporting details of the following for the preceding year:

• The amount of settlement funds received;
• Details on how settlement funds were spent; and
• Whether each expenditure fits within an approved use.

The Second Annual Report as well as other opioid settlement information can be found on the DMH website pages specifically established for public reporting: MOopioidsettlements. (https://moopioidsettlements.dmh.mo.gov/).

DMH continues to work with the Attorney General’s Office, the Missouri Association of Counties, and the Missouri Municipal League to communicate settlement reporting requirements.

The 11th Annual Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Conference will be held Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, March 12, 13 & 14, 2025, at the Margaritaville Lake Resort in Osage Beach, MO.  More than 800 law enforcement officers, other first responders and behavioral health professionals are expected to attend. The purpose of CIT is to address the challenges that often arise when law enforcement officers encounter individuals with behavioral health conditions in crisis situations.

This year’s conference will also include a crisis summit featuring crisis resources such as 988, mobile crisis response, and behavioral health crisis centers. There will also be award recognitions of individuals from across the state including the Dr. Rick Gowdy Legacy Award, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, Community Behavioral Health Liaison of the Year, Champion of the Year, Front Line Professional of the Year, the Lauren Moyer Legacy Award, and the Timothy D. Conroy Peer Advocate of the Year.  Very deserving professionals will be recognized during the awards ceremony Friday afternoon.

Specific agenda information is available on the CIT Conference website.

Media: For planning purposes, please contact the Missouri Behavioral Health Council (MBHC) at events@mobhc.org if you plan to cover this event.

Location:  Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake of the Ozarks, 494 Tan Tar A Drive, Osage Beach, MO 65065.