Mental Health
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in 2004, mental health disorders account for four of the top 10 causes of disability in the US. These disorders include: major depression (also called clinical depression), manic depression (also called bipolar disorder), schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
It is estimated that 22.1 percent of Americans ages 18 and older, approximately one in five (or over 44 million) adults, suffer from a diagnosable mental health disorder in any given year, with many people suffering from more than one mental health disorder. In particular, depressive illnesses tend to co-occur with substance abuse and anxiety disorders. It is estimated that approximately 18.8 million American adults, (or 9.5 percent-ages 18 and older), will suffer from depressive illness (major depression, bipolar disorder, or dysthymia) each year.
Some disorders are mild, while others are more disabling and require intensive management and care. Mental health disorders can effect changes in behaviors and feelings that cause individuals to act disruptive, rebellious, or sad. This may include, but not limited to, problems with relationships, work, school, sleeping, eating, substance abuse, emotional expression, development, coping, attentiveness, and responsiveness. Knowing when to seek treatment for mental health disorders is important for both individuals and families. It is important for families that suspect a problem in one or more of these areas to seek treatment as soon as possible.
According to the New York State Office of Mental Health, there are 132 licensed mental health programs in Suffolk County and 89 licensed mental health programs in Nassau County.
LIAAC can provide assistance to individuals with mental health issues who reside in Nassau and Suffolk Counties through Case Management and/or our Hotline. Case Management has traditionally been a method for serving persons who lack the ability to access resources, who suffer from chronic conditions and are confronted with barriers on a consistent basis. Case managers may provide services on a long-term and short-term basis. The primary function is to ensure the provision of health-related and social support services. Our field-based approach allows for case mangers to meet clients in their homes, in the hospital, and other community settings.
The LIAAC Hotline serves as the entry point for all LIAAC services to ensure that clients and community members are directly linked to a wide range of health-related services, including mental health. Our highly trained staff assess the client's needs and link them to appropriate, effective services.
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For more information, please contact our hotline at 1.877.TO.LIAAC
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