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: CARE Court Will Expand Eligibility, Include Bipolar 1 Disorder Effective Jan. 1
California Senate Bill (SB) 27 will take effect on Jan. 1, introducing key updates to the CARE Act — including expanding eligibility to include individuals with bipolar I disorder with psychotic features. SB 27’s main goal is to strengthen the original CARE Act by enhancing access, coordination, and efficiency in delivering mental health and housing services.
5 Things To Know: San Diego County Solicits Behavioral Health Services Act Feedback
As California counties prepare to implement the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) on July 1, 2026, the County of San Diego's Behavioral Health Services Department is seeking community feedback on behavioral health programs and services through virtual input sessions and an online survey.
2025 HASD&IC Annual Meeting: A Respite from the Ongoing Storm
In two weeks, we’ll come together for the 2025 HASD&IC Annual Meeting — a gathering for hospital leaders, policymakers, and community partners to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing our hospitals and health systems. This annual meeting is not only a valuable opportunity to hear from local leaders and policy experts, but also a chance to gain new insights, find inspiration, and prepare for what lies ahead.
Strengthening the Behavioral Health Continuum
Hospitals across our region continue to witness firsthand the profound impact behavioral health has on the well-being of our communities. The findings in our upcoming behavioral health environmental scans echo what we hear regularly from care providers and community partners: Demand for behavioral health services continues to grow even as workforce shortages, limited treatment availability, bed closures, and care coordination challenges persist.
5 Things To Know: FAQs Address Key Behavioral Health Funding and Legislation
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has released FAQs on key behavioral health funding and legislation, including:
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.