By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
One of the most important advances in treating serious mental illness in recent years is improving care for people experiencing a first onset of serious mental illness. We know that early phases of psychosis can be identified, and that team based coordinated specialty care treatment reduces the likelihood of long-term disability. SAMHSA’s new Early Serious Mental Illness Treatment Locator will help connect people experiencing a first onset of serious mental illness to effective care.
Similar to SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator, this online tool users to search for specialty programs that treat early serious mental illness, including first episode psychosis. Each program listing includes eligibility criteria, including age range and diagnoses treated, services provided, location and contact information. This information can serve as a lifeline to people who urgently need help.
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
By: Eric D. Hargan, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services
Cross posted from the HHS Blog
Summary: After visiting tribal communities in interior Alaska, Deputy Secretary Hargan praised the quality of care at Alaska Native health facilities.
A key piece to success in serving the American people involves going to them in person and hearing what is important in their lives. That was the reason that a large delegation from HHS recently made the trip to the interior of Alaska.
By: Anita Everett, M.D., DFAPA, Chief Medical Officer
Mental health is central to everyone’s well-being, particularly adolescents, teens, and young adults. Our youth are active in their communities where they initiate growth, lead and contribute. However, in many cases, some young people face additional challenges that can take a toll on their well-being, including suffering from mental illness. This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) has chosen youth as the focus of World Mental Health Day 2018 with its theme, “Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World.”
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