The Mississippi Department of Mental Health joins the nation in observing Mental Health Awareness Month this May, reaffirming its commitment to expanding access to quality behavioral health services for all Mississippians.
First observed in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise public understanding of mental health conditions, reduce stigma, and connect individuals and families with the resources they need. This year’s observance comes as DMH continues to strengthen its statewide network of services–from inpatient care to community-based supports–ensuring that Mississippians can access help wherever they are. It is also announcing the launch of the Mississippi Network of Care for Behavioral Health. This innovative, web-based platform serves as a critical resource for individuals, families and service providers seeking to navigate the state’s behavioral health system. It’s online and accessible at www.mississippicares.ai today.
As the nation’s oldest and largest behavioral health platform, the Network of Care is an online resource that provides critical information, communication and advocacy tools for across a variety of social services. DMH formally launched the site in conjunction with NAMI Mississippi at its annual conference in Hattiesburg on April 30. Network of Care has a proven track record of success across the country with nearly 25 years of service; the platform is currently active in 26 states with hundreds of localized sites.
“We all experience times when we struggle, and it’s okay not to be okay,” said DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey. “But when you’re not okay, you need to know how to connect to help. The Network of Care will serve as a vital tool in helping Mississippians easily access the resources and support we need.”
The Mississippi Cares Network of Care site is designed to be a living resource that will expand alongside the needs of the community. It will enable people to find the right service at the right time and includes a health library linking to thousands of articles and fact sheets about physical health and behavioral health. From providing information on symptoms and interactive screening tools to medical tests and medications, the site has an incredible breadth of information that is available to all visitors.
Mental illness is more common than many realize. One in five people will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, and one in four families has a member living with a mental health
condition. In Mississippi alone, close to 150,000 adults (about 4.7% of the state’s population) live with serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. Like diabetes or asthma, mental illness is a health condition… one that responds to treatment and support.
DMH operates four state hospitals and supports comprehensive continuum of community-based services, including intensive services at Mississippi’s 12 community mental health centers, peer support programs, crisis services through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and so much more. The state’s efforts are making a measurable difference, as measures passed by the Mississippi Legislature in recent years have revised the state’s commitment process, strengthened diversion efforts and supported awareness and training opportunities. More law enforcement officers than ever before have received evidence-based training like Mental Health First Aid and Crisis Intervention Team training, and there is continuing work to ensure that Mississippians in crisis receive the care they need.
“Mental health is not a luxury; it is a cornerstone of overall well-being, and every Mississippian deserves access to the care and support they need,” Bailey said. “This month, we encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out. Help is available, recovery is possible, and no one has to face this journey alone.”
For more information or to find mental health services near you, contact the DMH Helpline at 1-877-210-8513 or visit www.dmh.ms.gov.