The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is a state government agency dedicated to providing essential services and support to individuals in Georgia who are affected by mental health challenges, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. DBHDD plays a critical role in ensuring access to care, promoting recovery, and enhancing the overall well-being of individuals and families in the state.

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Overview:

DBHDD works to improve the quality of life for individuals by offering a range of services that are community-based, person-centered, and designed to promote independence, recovery, and empowerment. The department's mission is to provide services that allow individuals to live productive, fulfilling lives, helping them integrate into their communities and lead lives of dignity and purpose.

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Key Areas of Focus:

1. Mental Health Services: DBHDD provides comprehensive mental health services for individuals struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric conditions. These services include:

   • Outpatient services: Counseling, therapy, and medication management.

   • Crisis intervention: Immediate assistance through hotlines, mobile crisis teams, and emergency response services.

   • Community-based programs: Support groups, case management, and rehabilitative services.

   • Inpatient care: For individuals who need intensive psychiatric care and stabilization.

2. Developmental Disabilities: DBHDD offers support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Services include:

   • Residential services: Group homes, supported living arrangements, and institutional care when needed.

   • Day programs: Work training, life skills development, and recreational activities.

   • Family support: Resources and training for families of individuals with developmental disabilities.

   • Community-based services: Support in integrating into the community and engaging in social and economic activities.

3. Substance Use Disorder Services: DBHDD provides a wide range of services for individuals affected by substance use disorders, including:

   • Detoxification and withdrawal management: Safe, medically supervised withdrawal from substances.

   • Outpatient therapy: Counseling, group therapy, and support groups for individuals in recovery.

   • Residential treatment: Long-term programs for individuals with more severe substance use disorders.

   • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Use of medication in conjunction with therapy to treat opioid addiction and other substance use disorders.

4. Crisis Services: The DBHDD provides various crisis services to address mental health and substance use emergencies, including:

   • Crisis stabilization units (CSUs): Short-term residential care for individuals in mental health or substance use crises.

   • Mobile crisis teams: Teams of trained professionals who respond to individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises in the community.

   • 24/7 crisis hotlines: Accessible phone services for individuals needing immediate assistance.

 

Goals and Mission:

DBHDD’s mission is to help individuals achieve mental, emotional, and physical well-being through access to high-quality behavioral health and developmental disability services. The department aims to:

• Provide access to integrated care that promotes independence and recovery.

• Ensure that individuals have the tools to succeed in the community and lead fulfilling lives.

• Improve the overall quality of life for individuals with mental health conditions, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders.

 

Person-Centered Care:

At the heart of DBHDD's approach is person-centered care. This model involves tailoring services to meet the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each individual. DBHDD works closely with families and community partners to create care plans that prioritize the individual's strengths, values, and aspirations.

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Accessing Services:

DBHDD services are offered through a statewide network of regional offices and contracted providers. Individuals can access services through:

• Local Community Service Boards (CSBs): Regional agencies that provide behavioral health services at the local level.

• Specialized treatment centers: For those in need of more intensive care.

• Crisis intervention resources: Available to individuals in immediate need of assistance.

 

Prevention and Education:

In addition to providing direct services, DBHDD is involved in prevention efforts and educational initiatives to promote mental health and prevent substance use. These programs include:

• Public awareness campaigns: Aimed at reducing stigma around mental health and substance use.

• Training for healthcare providers: Ensuring that those who work with individuals in need are equipped to offer appropriate care.

• Youth prevention programs: Focused on preventing substance use and promoting healthy behaviors among young people.

 

Funding and Eligibility:

DBHDD is funded by both federal and state resources. To ensure that services are accessible to all, the department works with Medicaid and other funding streams. Eligibility for services varies depending on the individual’s needs and the program, but DBHDD strives to provide care to all individuals who meet the criteria.

Contact Information:

To learn more about DBHDD services, individuals can contact:

• DBHDD website: Provides detailed information on available services, resources, and regional offices.

• Crisis Hotline: For immediate assistance with mental health or substance use crises.

• Local Community Service Boards (CSBs): Contact for specific regional services.

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The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities plays a vital role in providing quality services to individuals facing behavioral health challenges, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. Through a compassionate, person-centered approach, DBHDD ensures that individuals and families receive the support they need to thrive and live fulfilling lives.