Mental Health Association Data Breach Lawsuit Investigation

What Happened?

On December 2, 2024, Mental Health Association Inc. (“MHA”) detected unauthorized activity in its computer network. A forensic investigation later confirmed that both personally identifiable information (PII) and protected health information (PHI) stored on MHA systems were accessed without permission. The nonprofit reported the incident to state regulators on May 30, 2025, with filings showing at least 12,695 individuals across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine were impacted.

What Information Was Exposed?

The data elements vary by individual but may include:

• Full name and mailing address
• Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Driver’s license or other government ID number
• Medical diagnosis or treatment details
• Medication information
• Medical record number and other medical data
• Financial or insurance information

Who Is Mental Health Association Inc.?

MHA is a Western Massachusetts non-profit founded in 1960 that operates more than 60 residential sites and provides emotional health, substance-use recovery, outpatient care, and housing assistance services. The organization employs roughly 780 staff members and serves individuals living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, substance use disorders, and homelessness.

Steps You Should Take Right Now

MHA is offering 24 months of complimentary credit monitoring through Haystack, but additional actions are strongly recommended:

• Activate credit monitoring: Enroll in the free Haystack service as soon as you receive your enrollment code.
• Review account statements: Watch for unfamiliar charges or benefits explanations.
• Check your credit reports: Look for new or suspicious accounts. You are entitled to a free report yearly from each bureau.
• Place a fraud alert or credit freeze: These tools make it harder for criminals to open new credit lines in your name.
• Consult an attorney: You may be eligible for financial compensation through a class action or individual claim.

Potential Lawsuit & Compensation

Under state and federal privacy laws, organizations that fail to safeguard sensitive data can be held liable for resulting damages. Victims of the MHA breach may seek compensation for:

• Out-of-pocket expenses (credit monitoring, notarization, mailing fees)
• Time spent addressing fraud or identity theft
• Emotional distress or invasion of privacy
• Future risk of identity theft and medical identity fraud

If you received a notification letter, preserve it and any evidence of fraudulent activity. An experienced data-privacy attorney can evaluate your claim at no upfront cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the Mental Health Association data breach?

An unauthorized actor accessed MHA’s network on December 2, 2024. Specific technical details have not been publicly released, but the incident resulted in exposure of PII and PHI.

How do I know if I am affected by the Mental Health Association breach?

MHA mailed letters to everyone whose data was involved. If you received a notice—or previously received services from MHA—assume your information could be at risk and take protective steps immediately.

Which types of information were compromised in the Mental Health Association incident?

Data elements include names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, addresses, driver’s license numbers, medical diagnoses, prescriptions, and other health-related records.

Is Mental Health Association offering free credit monitoring?

Yes. The organization arranged 24 months of complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection through Haystack for all impacted individuals.

Can I file a lawsuit against Mental Health Association for the data breach?

You may be able to join a class action or pursue an individual claim for damages. Speak with a data-breach attorney promptly to understand eligibility, deadlines, and potential compensation.