Norfolk CSB says therapy, prevention, and crisis services are in high demand as the agency hosts Mental Health Awareness Month events this week.
NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk’s main behavioral health services provider says people across the city are reaching out for mental health support — and leaders say growing needs, combined with insurance coverage changes, could create even more challenges for families seeking services.
The Norfolk Community Services Board is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month with two public events this week aimed at education, connection, and access to resources.
Jennifer Ryneska, Community Support Services Programs Manager with Norfolk CSB, said the agency currently serves about 6,000 people each year through mental health, substance use, crisis response and housing-related programs.
“Case management, therapy, prevention, crisis services — those are probably the most in demand right now,” Ryneska said.
Norfolk CSB provides community-based mental health services, substance use support, developmental services and homeless services throughout the city. Ryneska said one of the agency’s main goals during Mental Health Awareness Month is to reduce the stigma around asking for support.
“It is OK to get help,” she said. “Yes, there are resources out there… And yes, it is possible that I can get better with commitment to treatment.”
Ryneska said insurance coverage changes could make it harder for some residents who rely on behavioral health services.
“NCSB is actively preparing to continue to develop these services in light of the recent Medicaid changes, which will result in Norfolk citizens losing coverage,” Ryneska said. “So, I think that that is a challenge.”
She said Norfolk’s homeless population is one of the groups most affected by mental illness and substance use disorders, with many facing additional barriers when trying to access treatment and housing support.
Ryneska encouraged families and loved ones to pay attention to changes in the way someone acts or responds emotionally, saying those changes can sometimes signal a person may need support.
“If you’re seeing behavior that you don’t normally see, that would need to be addressed,” she said. “There is hope. And the Norfolk Community Services Board, like many other providers in the community, can link you to resources you need.”
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Norfolk CSB is partnering with community organizations to host two free public events this week.
On Wednesday, May 13, Norfolk CSB Prevention Services, in partnership with the Virginia Stage Company and Booker T. Washington Academy of the Arts, will present a free performance of “Every Brilliant Thing” at Booker T. Washington High School Theatre. The event will also include student performances, a student art gallery and on-site mental health resources.
A second event, “Mental Health Matters,” is scheduled for Friday, May 15, at Lafayette Park. The family-friendly event will include outreach from community partners, wellness resources, games, music, arts and crafts, food and beverages.
Ryneska said events like these are designed to make conversations around mental health more visible and accessible.
“It really is an opportunity for … the Norfolk community to really share in enlightening themselves and the community on what is available out there,” she said.
Both Mental Health Awareness Month events are free and open to the public.
Norfolk residents seeking services can contact Norfolk CSB by calling 757-756-5600 or visiting the agency’s website.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 to reach the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Local behavioral health crisis support is also available through Norfolk CSB’s emergency line at 757-664-7690.