Florida is about to receive some help after rising concerns with mental health as the state fights the coronavirus.
It’s no secret since lockdowns began with the virus continuing to ravage on, people’s mental health in Florida has taken a hit.
In June, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey of 5,470 adults in the US concludes the mental health of young adults, essential workers, and minorities are concerning. The data found that 25% of young adults (ages 18-24) “seriously considered suicide in the past 30 days.” Also, the age groups 18-24 and 25-44 saw a combined 44.2% increase in substance abuse. Overall, there was a 54.9% increase in substance abuse of all ages.
Back in July, a survey discovered the increase in substance abuse in Florida due to COVID-19 woes. According to the data, 57% saw an increase in their substance abuse with alcohol, marijuana, and opioids as their go-to choices. When comparing the CDC and the Florida survey totals, the numbers coincide, concluding a 50%+ increase in drug abuse.
Lastly, in August, there were concerns about Florida’s budget cuts, including mental health services. In particular, the Department of Children and Families has been tight for years, ever since the 2008 recession.
Read on to find out more about a new emergency grant that will help Floridians access mental health services and how you can get help for substance abuse in South Florida.
The Florida Department of Children and Families Gets Help
A press release from the Florida Department of Children and Families reveals the program will receive emergency funding from the government. The press release states:
“Recently, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) received a nearly $5 million emergency grant to implement a Crisis Counseling Program to help Floridians respond to the behavioral health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant, awarded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), will provide crisis counseling services through Florida’s network of 2-1-1 crisis helplines, assisting individuals in need of mental or behavioral health counseling and referrals. Under the Federal Crisis Counseling Program Service Grant, DCF was awarded $4,994,530 to be utilized over the next nine months. This funding will expand the existing capacity of crisis counselors within twelve 2-1-1 providers, while promoting the availability of behavioral health services among vulnerable populations, including children and their caregivers, first responders and healthcare workers, and those grieving a loss. 2-1-1 providers will routinely connect individuals to resources, while conducting telephone counseling services and screening callers for indications of more long-term behavioral health needs.”
The funding, as the PR statement says, will last about nine months. It is an excellent opportunity for those who need access to mental health services in Florida. Also, drug rehabs and professional help are available to those who are battling drug abuse.
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