Poughkeepsie...May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) announced today two upcoming public forums to discuss mental health services for adults and children in Dutchess County. Services for children and youth with emotional issues and/or chemical dependency will be discussed at the forum held on Monday, May 7, and adult mental health service needs will be discussed on Tuesday, May 8. The forums, which are free and open to the public, will take place from 4-6 pm in the Training Room at DBCH at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie. Attendees are asked to use Entrance #1.
“We urge members of the community to come to our forums, and talk about the services they believe are still needed for those dealing with mental health issues and addiction,” said Anil K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, Commissioner of Behavioral & Community Health. “As we work hard to break through the stigma of mental illness, we need to work together to advocate for our friends and neighbors who are dealing with these issues.”
Individuals with mental health challenges, family members, caretakers, and service providers are urged to attend, as input received will help shape DBCH’s 2019 Service Plan. Those unable to attend, or who do not feel comfortable speaking in public, can submit their comments online at DutchessNY.com/ForumComments or mail to: Public Forum Comments, DBCH, 230 North Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
Public forums are just two of Dutchess County’s many efforts to address the issues of mental health and substance use in our community. Last year, the County opened the Stabilization Center at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie. This voluntary, 24/7 resource offers a single point of service for adults, youth, and families who are dealing with behavioral health or substance use issues, enables them to receive immediate assistance, and connects them with ongoing support.
The public forums are sponsored by the Adult Mental Health and Children & Youth Mental Health Subcommittees of the Dutchess County Mental Hygiene Board. For more information related to the Children & Youth Public Forum, call (845) 486-2766. For more information related to the Adult Mental Health Public Forum, call (845) 486-2751.