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Department Of Mental Health And Substance Abuse Services

  • What Is the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services?
  • Mission of DMHSAS:
    • Ensuring Access to Quality Care
    • Preventing and Treating Substance Abuse Disorders
    • Promoting Recovery and Wellness
    • Reducing the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Conditions
  • Services Offered by DMHSAS:
    • Mental Health Treatment and Counseling
    • Substance Abuse Treatment
    • Crisis Intervention Services
    • Community Support Programs
  • Who Can Benefit from DMHSAS Services?
  • How to Access DMHSAS Services:
    • Referral from a Healthcare Provider
    • Self-Referral
    • Crisis Hotlines
  • DMHSAS Funding and Budget:
    • State and Federal Funding
    • Allocation of Resources
  • DMHSAS Leadership and Staff:
    • Commissioners
    • Directors
    • Clinicians and Support Staff
  • DMHSAS Partnerships and Collaborations:
    • Local and State Agencies
    • Community Organizations
    • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Advocacy Groups
  • DMHSAS Education and Outreach:
    • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Awareness Campaigns
    • Training and Workshops
    • Resource Materials and Tools
  • DMHSAS Initiatives and Project:
    • Mental Health First Aid
    • Tennessee Together
    • Substance Abuse Prevention Programs

What Is the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services?

The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (DMHSAS) is a government agency that provides comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services to Tennessee residents. The DMHSAS was established in 2016 as part of Governor Bill Haslam's efforts to streamline and improve the delivery of mental health and substance abuse services in the state. The agency operates under the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration and is responsible for the management and oversight of all public mental health and substance abuse services in Tennessee.

Mission of DMHSAS:

The mission of DMHSAS is to promote the well-being of Tennessee residents by ensuring access to quality care, preventing and treating substance abuse disorders, promoting recovery and wellness, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. The agency is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness and addiction through a range of evidence-based practices and interventions.
  • Ensuring Access to Quality Care: DMHSAS works to ensure that all Tennesseans have access to the highest quality mental health and substance abuse services. The agency supports a network of community-based mental health clinics and treatment centers across the state, as well as a range of specialized programs for individuals with complex needs.
  • Preventing and Treating Substance Abuse Disorders: DMHSAS is committed to preventing substance abuse and providing effective treatment for individuals struggling with addiction. The agency supports a range of prevention and early intervention initiatives, as well as evidence-based treatment programs that promote long-term recovery.
  • Promoting Recovery and Wellness: DMHSAS recognizes that recovery is a lifelong process and is dedicated to promoting the wellness of individuals and families affected by mental illness and addiction. The agency provides a range of recovery-oriented services, including peer support programs, employment and housing assistance, and other supportive services that promote wellness and self-sufficiency.
  • Reducing the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Conditions: DMHSAS works to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions by promoting public awareness and education. The agency supports a range of initiatives and campaigns that seek to raise awareness about mental illness, promote understanding and compassion, and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.

Services Offered by DMHSAS:

DMHSAS provides a wide range of mental health and substance abuse services to individuals and families across Tennessee. These services include:
  • Mental Health Treatment and Counseling: DMHSAS operates a network of community-based mental health clinics and treatment centers that provide a range of mental health services, including individual and group counseling, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and crisis intervention.
  • Substance Abuse Treatment: DMHSAS provides a range of substance abuse treatment services, including detoxification, inpatient and outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and aftercare services.
  • Crisis Intervention Services: DMHSAS operates a statewide crisis hotline that provides immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis. The agency also provides mobile crisis services and crisis stabilization units for individuals who require more intensive intervention.
  • Community Support Programs: DMHSAS supports a range of community-based programs and initiatives that promote recovery and wellness, including peer support programs, employment and housing assistance, and other supportive services.

Who Can Benefit from DMHSAS Services?

DMHSAS services are available to all Tennessee residents who are in need of mental health or substance abuse treatment and support. The agency provides services to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. DMHSAS services are also available to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, as well as those who have private insurance or Medicaid.

How to Access DMHSAS Services:

There are several ways to access DMHSAS services:
  • Referral from a Healthcare Provider: Individuals can be referred to DMHSAS services by their healthcare provider, including primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals.
  • Self-Referral: Individuals can also self-refer to DMHSAS services by contacting their local community mental health center or treatment provider directly.
  • Crisis Hotlines: DMHSAS operates a statewide crisis hotline that provides immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis. Individuals can also access crisis services by calling 911 or visiting their local emergency room.

DMHSAS Funding and Budget:

DMHSAS is primarily funded through state and federal sources. The agency's budget is allocated by the Tennessee General Assembly and includes funding for a range of mental health and substance abuse services, including community-based treatment programs, crisis intervention services, and prevention and education initiatives. DMHSAS also receives funding through grants and partnerships with local and national organizations.

DMHSAS Leadership and Staff:

DMHSAS is led by a team of commissioners, directors, and clinicians who are dedicated to improving the lives of Tennesseans affected by mental illness and addiction. The agency employs a range of mental health and substance abuse professionals, including licensed therapists, psychiatrists, nurses, and support staff, who work together to provide high-quality care and support to individuals and families across the state.

DMHSAS Partnerships and Collaborations:

DMHSAS partners with a range of local and state agencies, community organizations, and mental health and substance abuse advocacy groups to improve the delivery of mental health and substance abuse services in Tennessee. The agency collaborates with these partners to identify and address gaps in service delivery, promote public awareness and education, and advocate for policy changes that support the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness and addiction.

DMHSAS Education and Outreach:

DMHSAS is committed to promoting mental health and substance abuse awareness and education in Tennessee. The agency supports a range of educational initiatives and campaigns that seek to raise awareness about mental illness and addiction, promote understanding and compassion, and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. DMHSAS also provides training and workshops for mental health and substance abuse professionals, as well as resource materials and tools for individuals and families affected by mental illness and addiction.

DMHSAS Initiatives and Project:

DMHSAS is involved in a range of initiatives and projects aimed at improving the delivery of mental health and substance abuse services in Tennessee. These initiatives include:
  • Mental Health First Aid: DMHSAS supports Mental Health First Aid training for individuals and organizations across the state. This training program teaches individuals how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness and addiction and how to provide appropriate support and referrals.
  • Tennessee Together: DMHSAS is part of Tennessee Together, a statewide initiative aimed at addressing the opioid epidemic and other substance abuse issues. The initiative includes a range of prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts, as well as law enforcement and regulatory measures to reduce the supply of illicit drugs.
  • Substance Abuse Prevention Programs: DMHSAS supports a range of substance abuse prevention programs in schools, communities, and workplaces across Tennessee. These programs aim to prevent substance abuse by promoting healthy behaviors, educating individuals about the risks of substance abuse, and providing support and resources for individuals and families affected by addiction.
In conclusion, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is an essential agency that provides vital mental health and substance abuse services to Tennessee residents. The agency's mission is to promote the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness and addiction through a range of evidence-based practices and interventions. DMHSAS offers a wide range of services, including mental health treatment and counseling, substance abuse treatment, crisis intervention services, and community support programs. The agency is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health conditions and promoting public awareness and education about mental illness and addiction. With the support of its partners and collaborations, DMHSAS is working to improve the delivery of mental health and substance abuse services in Tennessee and promote the wellness of all Tennesseans.

Frequently Asked Questions about Department Of Mental Health And Substance Abuse Services

What is the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services?

The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is a state agency that provides support and services to individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues in Tennessee.

What services does the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services offer?

The department offers a range of services including counseling, therapy, crisis intervention, medication management, and support groups for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. They also provide education and training for professionals and community members.

How do I access services from the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services?

You can access services by contacting your local Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Center or by calling the department's helpline at 1-800-560-5767. You can also visit their website for more information and resources.

Is there a cost for services from the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services?

The cost of services may vary depending on your individual circumstances, but the department offers a sliding fee scale based on income and ability to pay. They also accept some insurance plans and Medicaid. It's best to contact them directly for more information about costs.