About Behavioral Health
California has a behavioral health care crisis, as more Californians need care, and there are not enough providers to deliver that care. As a last resort, those facing a mental health crisis turn to hospital emergency departments. The number of people going to an emergency department for mental health needs jumped 68% from 2010 to 2020; for children 12 to 17 that number climbed 31%. Creating a behavioral health care system means making access easier and more equitable, while ensuring patients receive care in the most appropriate setting.
5 Things To Know: Reminder: DHCS Webinar to Support Successful BHCIP Applications
In a special webinar to be held July 21 from 1-2 p.m. (PT), the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) will share common reasons it does not fund a proposed Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) project, as well as tips on completing the grant application.
5 Things To Know: San Diego American Indian Health Center to Host Substance Awareness Event
Attendees at this year’s “Raising Awareness” event, to be held at the Ballard Parent Center from noon to 4 p.m. on July 26, will be able to connect with community members and learn about substance use and opioid overdose prevention resources. Presenters at the event will include San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan and...
5 Things To Know: CDPH Seeks Feedback on BHSA Population-Based Prevention Program Guide
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has released the first phase of its Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) population-based prevention program guidance, covering requirements, statewide goals, and state-level prevention strategies. Feedback — which will help inform the program’s planning, development, and implementation — will be accepted through July 11 and can be shared through...
5 Things To Know: Upcoming Regional Collaborative Promotes Expanded Access to Medication-Assisted Treatment
At the CA Bridge Program’s free virtual regional collaborative on June 3 from 9-10:30 a.m. (PT), attendees can connect with both regional and statewide leaders in the substance use disorder treatment field and learn how to influence Behavioral Health Services Act priorities for their county. Registration is open via Zoom.
Advancing the Fight for Better Mental Health Resources
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when all who are committed to helping those living with mental health conditions can pause to reflect on the meaning of their work. This is also a time for us to continue fostering greater awareness, empathy, and understanding for those in need of care.
5 Things To Know: Medi-Cal Behavioral Health Residency Training Program to Launch in July
The Medi-Cal Behavioral Health Residency Training Program offers up to $250,000 per slot to help grow residency and fellowship programs, strengthening California’s behavioral health workforce and improving access to care. For more information, visit the program’s website.
5 Things To Know: Presentation Details Behavioral Intervention for Substance Use Disorders
The San Diego County Substance Use and Overdose Prevention Taskforce will hold a free online presentation on June 13 from 10 a.m. to noon (PT) to talk about contingency management — an evidence-based behavioral intervention that uses tangible rewards to reinforce positive behaviors — and its effectiveness in supporting recovery and reduce overdose risk. Registration...
5 Things To Know: DHCS Seeks Public Comment on Behavioral Health Services Act County Policy Manual
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has released significant updates to the Behavioral Health Services Act County Policy Manual and opened the public comment period for the Module 3 draft. This draft provides clear guidance on integrated plan submission and approval processes, budget templates, integrated plan templates, and measures for population goals. It will...
5 Things To Know: San Diego, Imperial Counties Host Mental Health Awareness Walks
To raise awareness and fundraise to support powerful change in our community around mental health, the National Alliance on Mental Illness is hosting walks on April 12 at the Imperial Valley Mall and April 26 at Liberty Station. Free registration for the San Diego and Imperial events is open for those interested in participating.
5 Things To Know: Public Comment Requested on Mental Health Services Act Annual Update
From April 1 through May 1, San Diego County is holding a 30-day online public review and comment period for the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Fiscal Year 2025-26 Annual Update. Final comments will be heard at the Behavioral Health Advisory Board’s May 1 meeting. The annual update will go before the San Diego County...