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Kansas Department Of Mental Health

  • Introduction: Kansas Department of Mental Health
  • Mission Statement and Objectives
  • History and Background
  • Leadership and Organizational Structure
  • Initiatives and Programs
  • Services and Treatment Available
  • Mental Health Care Access and Availability
  • Partnerships and Collaborations
  • Research and Best Practices in Mental Health Care
  • Future Plans and Goals

Introduction: Kansas Department of Mental Health

The Kansas Department of Mental Health (KDMH) is a state agency dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of all Kansans. The department provides a range of services and programs designed to prevent and treat mental illness and substance use disorders. With a team of dedicated professionals, KDMH is committed to promoting recovery, resiliency, and hope for individuals experiencing mental health challenges throughout the state.

Mission Statement and Objectives

KDMH's mission is to ensure that all Kansans have access to quality mental health services that are person-centered, trauma-informed, and evidence-based. To achieve this mission, KDMH has set forth several objectives. These include promoting early intervention and prevention services, expanding access to care, reducing stigma associated with mental illness, and supporting recovery-oriented systems of care. By accomplishing these objectives, KDMH aims to improve the overall mental health status of Kansans, enhance their quality of life, and reduce the economic burden of mental illness on the state.

History and Background

KDMH was established in 1990, following the passage of the Kansas Mental Health Reform Act. The act aimed to improve the state's mental health system by shifting resources towards community-based services and away from institutional care. Since then, KDMH has worked tirelessly to implement the act's provisions and improve mental health services across the state. Today, KDMH is recognized as a national leader in mental health policy, program development, and service delivery.

Leadership and Organizational Structure

KDMH is led by a Secretary appointed by the Governor of Kansas. The Secretary is responsible for overseeing the department's operations and ensuring that its goals and objectives are met. Under the Secretary's leadership, KDMH is organized into several divisions, each with its own set of responsibilities. These divisions include the Division of Behavioral Health Services, the Division of Community Behavioral Health Services, and the Division of Addiction and Prevention Services. KDMH also has several boards and commissions that provide guidance and support to the department.

Initiatives and Programs

KDMH has implemented several initiatives and programs designed to improve mental health services across the state. One such initiative is the Kansas Community Mental Health Centers (CMHC) Program, which provides community-based mental health services to Kansans of all ages. The program operates 26 CMHCs throughout the state, providing a range of services, including counseling, therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention.Another significant program is the Children's Initiative Fund (CIF), which provides funding for early childhood programs and services that promote healthy development and prevent mental health problems. The CIF funds a range of programs, including home visiting, parenting education, and child care services.KDMH also operates the Kansas Suicide Prevention Resource Center (KSPRC), which provides training, resources, and support to individuals and organizations working to prevent suicide in Kansas. The KSPRC offers training on suicide prevention best practices, conducts research on suicide prevention, and provides technical assistance to organizations seeking to implement suicide prevention programs.

Services and Treatment Available

KDMH offers a range of services and treatments for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. These services include crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, medication management, case management, and peer support. KDMH also operates several residential treatment facilities, including psychiatric hospitals, group homes, and crisis stabilization centers. The department's services are designed to be person-centered, meaning that they are tailored to meet the individual needs of each client.

Mental Health Care Access and Availability

Access to mental health care is a critical issue in Kansas. Many Kansans live in rural areas with limited access to mental health services. To address this issue, KDMH has implemented several programs and initiatives aimed at improving access to care. These include telehealth services, which allow individuals to receive mental health services remotely, and mobile crisis response teams, which provide crisis intervention services in the community.KDMH has also worked to expand the number of mental health providers in the state. The department provides funding for mental health workforce development programs and offers loan repayment programs for mental health professionals who agree to work in underserved areas of the state.

Partnerships and Collaborations

KDMH recognizes that improving mental health services in Kansas requires collaboration with other organizations and stakeholders. The department has established partnerships with a range of organizations, including hospitals, schools, community-based organizations, and other state agencies. These partnerships help to improve the coordination of care and ensure that individuals receive the services they need.KDMH also collaborates with national organizations, such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), to identify best practices in mental health care and implement evidence-based interventions.

Research and Best Practices in Mental Health Care

KDMH is committed to staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in mental health care. The department conducts research on mental health outcomes in Kansas and works to identify effective interventions. KDMH also collaborates with researchers from universities and other organizations to develop and evaluate new treatments and interventions.KDMH is also committed to implementing evidence-based practices in its service delivery. The department uses data and research to inform its policies and programs and regularly evaluates the effectiveness of its services.

Future Plans and Goals

KDMH's future plans and goals are focused on continuing to improve mental health services in Kansas. The department aims to expand access to care, particularly in underserved areas of the state. KDMH also plans to develop new programs and initiatives aimed at preventing mental health problems and promoting healthy development.Ultimately, KDMH's goal is to ensure that all Kansans have access to quality mental health services that meet their individual needs and promote recovery and resiliency. By continuing to work towards this goal, KDMH is helping to improve the overall mental health status of Kansas and enhance the well-being of its residents.

Frequently Asked Questions - Kansas Department Of Mental Health

What services does the Kansas Department Of Mental Health provide?

The Kansas Department Of Mental Health provides a range of mental health services including counseling, therapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and support groups for individuals with mental illness.

Do I need a referral to receive mental health services from the Kansas Department Of Mental Health?

No, you do not need a referral to receive mental health services from the Kansas Department Of Mental Health. You can call their helpline or schedule an appointment directly with one of their mental health professionals.

Is there a cost for mental health services from the Kansas Department Of Mental Health?

The cost of mental health services from the Kansas Department Of Mental Health varies depending on your insurance coverage and financial situation. They offer a sliding fee scale for individuals who are uninsured or underinsured.

What should I do if I am in a mental health crisis?

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you should call the Kansas Department Of Mental Health crisis hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or go to your nearest emergency room for immediate assistance.