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: Free Digital Suicide Prevention Resources Available for Youth, Families
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative has shared a robust set of digital resources for children, youth, and families.
5 Things To Know: Free Children’s Mental Health Consults Available to Hospitals
5 Things To Know: San Diego County Event Aims to Raise Awareness of Overdose Prevention
On Aug. 21 from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the San Diego County Administration Center will host a resource fair in observance of International Overdose Awareness Day. The event will highlight prevention, treatment, and support, emphasizing that overdose is preventable and addiction is treatable.
5 Things To Know: California Agencies to Convene for CARE Act Working Group
The California Health and Human Services Agency, along with the Department of Health Care Services and the Judicial Council of California, will host the next Community Assistance, Recovery & Empowerment (CARE) Act Working Group meeting on Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (PT) in Sacramento and via Zoom. The event will include a...
5 Things To Know: New Behavioral Health Workforce Funding Available
The Policy and Innovation Center has released two requests for proposals addressing new behavioral health funding opportunities: the Nurse Practitioner Expansion Grant Program and the Social Work, Therapy, and Counseling Internship Program. Both programs are part of the ELEVATE Behavioral Health Workforce Fund, which includes the San Diego Pay it Forward Loan Program and two...
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.