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Georgia Department Of Behavioral Health

  • What is the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health?
  • What services does the department offer?
  • Who qualifies for services from the department?
  • How can one access services from the department?
  • What is the department’s mission and vision?
  • What are some of the challenges facing the department?
  • How does the department partner with other organizations?
  • What is the department doing to promote mental health awareness?
  • What kind of research does the department conduct?
  • What are some of the success stories of the department?

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health: Providing Quality Mental Health Services

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health (DBHDD) is a state agency that provides mental health, developmental disability, and addictive disease services to individuals and families in Georgia. The department was formed in 2009 when the Georgia Department of Human Resources was restructured. DBHDD is responsible for ensuring that all Georgians have access to comprehensive, quality care and treatment for mental health and substance abuse disorders.

Services Offered by the Department

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health offers a wide range of services to individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Some of the services include:

  • Outpatient Services: Outpatient services are provided to individuals who do not require hospitalization but need ongoing support and treatment for mental health or substance abuse disorders.
  • Inpatient Services: Inpatient services are provided to individuals who require hospitalization due to severe mental health or substance abuse disorders.
  • Crisis Services: Crisis services are provided to individuals experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis. These services are available 24/7 and include mobile crisis services, crisis stabilization units, and crisis intervention services.
  • Recovery Support Services: Recovery support services are provided to individuals who are in recovery from mental health or substance abuse disorders. These services help individuals maintain their recovery and live independently in the community.
  • Developmental Disabilities Services: DBHDD also provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, and autism spectrum disorders.

Eligibility for Services

Services provided by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health are available to all Georgians who are experiencing mental health or substance abuse disorders. Services are also available to individuals with developmental disabilities. Eligibility for services is determined based on an assessment conducted by a licensed mental health professional.

Accessing Services from the Department

To access services from the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health, individuals can call the department’s toll-free Access Line at 1-800-715-4225. The Access Line is available 24/7 and provides information and referrals to individuals seeking mental health or substance abuse services. Individuals can also visit the department’s website to learn more about the services available and how to access them.

Mission and Vision of the Department

The mission of the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health is to provide leadership in the promotion of recovery and resiliency for individuals with mental health, developmental disabilities, and addictive diseases. The department’s vision is for all Georgians to live healthy, meaningful lives in their communities.

Challenges Facing the Department

One of the major challenges facing the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health is funding. Due to budget cuts, the department has had to reduce services and staff, which has resulted in longer wait times for services and decreased access to care. Another challenge facing the department is stigma. Mental illness and substance abuse disorders are often stigmatized, which can prevent individuals from seeking treatment and support.

Partnerships with Other Organizations

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health partners with a variety of organizations to provide comprehensive, quality care to individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Some of the department’s partners include community mental health centers, hospitals, primary care providers, and advocacy organizations. These partnerships enable the department to provide a continuum of care that meets the unique needs of each individual.

Promoting Mental Health Awareness

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health is committed to promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma. The department provides education and training to individuals, families, and communities on mental health and substance abuse disorders. The department also sponsors events and campaigns to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

Research Conducted by the Department

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health conducts research to improve the quality of care and treatment for individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders. Research is conducted in collaboration with universities, hospitals, and other organizations. The department’s research focuses on improving access to care, developing effective treatment strategies, and reducing stigma.

Success Stories of the Department

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health has had many success stories over the years. One example is the department’s work in reducing the number of individuals with mental illness in jails and prisons. Through partnerships with law enforcement, community mental health centers, and advocacy organizations, the department has been able to divert individuals with mental illness from the criminal justice system and into treatment. Another success story is the department’s work in improving access to care for individuals with developmental disabilities. Through partnerships with providers and advocacy organizations, the department has been able to expand services and improve outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health plays a critical role in providing quality mental health and substance abuse services to individuals and families in Georgia. Through partnerships, research, and education, the department is working to improve access to care, reduce stigma, and promote recovery and resiliency for all Georgians.

People Also Ask about Georgia Department of Behavioral Health

What is the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health?

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is responsible for providing mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to residents of Georgia.

What types of services does DBHDD provide?

DBHDD provides a variety of services including crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, residential treatment, community support, and vocational rehabilitation for individuals with mental illness, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities.

How can I access services through DBHDD?

Individuals can contact their local Community Service Board (CSB) to access services through DBHDD. CSBs are regional agencies that provide mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services on behalf of DBHDD.

Does DBHDD provide services for children?

Yes, DBHDD provides services for children with mental illness, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities. Services may include therapy, medication management, and support for families.