Improving Lane County Behavioral Health Services: A Community Effort
Lane County, located in the beautiful state of Oregon, has recently seen a rise in the need for behavioral health services. As with many communities around the country, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health challenges and created new ones. However, the community has rallied together to collaborate on improving services. In this article, we will explore the community effort to improve Lane County’s behavioral health services.
Background
Lane County’s behavioral health services have been in need of improvement for years. A study conducted in 2017 found that Oregon has the highest rate of mental illness in the nation and Lane County has one of the highest rates of suicide. Additionally, the County has struggled with a high rate of homelessness and substance abuse, which can have significant impacts on mental health.
The Community Effort
Recognizing the need for improvement, Lane County’s community has come together to collaborate on solutions. One of the key players in this effort is the Lane County Behavioral Health Advisory Committee (BHA). The BHA is made up of community members, mental health professionals, and county representatives whose goal is to advise county leadership on behavioral health services.
Additionally, local nonprofits and organizations have stepped up to provide support and resources. ShelterCare, a nonprofit that provides housing solutions for individuals with mental illness or substance abuse disorders, has expanded their services to address the increased need in Lane County. Another nonprofit, White Bird Clinic, offers crisis intervention and other services to individuals in need.
Innovation and Successes
One innovative solution that has emerged from the community effort is the use of telehealth services. With the pandemic limiting in-person interactions, many mental health providers have turned to telehealth to provide services remotely. This has expanded access to care for individuals who may not have been able to receive services otherwise.
The community effort has also resulted in increased funding for mental health services. One example is the State of Oregon’s recently passed budget, which includes a $19 million increase in funding for mental health services.
Conclusion
The community effort to improve Lane County’s behavioral health services is a testament to the power of collaboration. By bringing together community members, mental health professionals, and county representatives, the effort has resulted in innovative solutions and increased funding for services. As the community continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, the collaboration and efforts to improve behavioral health services will be critical in supporting those in need.
