The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has released a year-one progress report detailing expanded access to mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services across the state.
The report tracks progress on the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services’ 2024–2029 strategic plan, which focuses on seven priorities aimed at building a comprehensive behavioral health system. Those priorities include:
Increase Access to Care Across the StateIncrease Access to Quality Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) ServicesPrevent Substance Misuse and OverdoseBuild the WorkforceStrengthen the Crisis SystemExpand Services for Individuals in the Justice SystemAmplify Recovery and Community-Based ServicesWe are building a healthier North Carolina that puts people first,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai, adding the department is focused on meeting people’s needs at the right time and in the right setting.
Among the first-year highlights, NCDHHS reported opening seven new Behavioral Health Urgent Care centers and one Facility-Based Crisis center, launching two Mobile Opioid Treatment Programs to reach underserved communities, and opening two peer respite centers. The department also expanded workforce initiatives, including loan repayment for licensed providers in rural areas and a new Advanced Direct Support Professionals course in partnership with community colleges.
NCDHHS officials said the department increased by 20% the number of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities receiving home- and community-based services while on the Innovations Waiver waitlist. Efforts to reduce opioid overdoses have also expanded, with more than 150,000 naloxone kits distributed through partnerships with Alliance Health and the NC Harm Reduction Coalition. In the first quarter of 2025, opioid treatment center participation increased by 9% compared to the same period in 2024.
Director Kelly Crosbie said the department has focused on growing the behavioral health workforce, strengthening crisis supports, and expanding care for people involved in the justice system, aligning with Gov. Josh Stein’s Executive Order 33 to prioritize treatment over incarceration. NCDHHS said the strategic plan builds on earlier initiatives, including the Opioid Action Plan and Suicide Prevention Action Plan, as the department continues efforts to improve access, reduce stigma, and support recovery statewide.