Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) manages programs and services delivered by community-based behavioral health providers. One example includes the local Community Service Board (CSB). The CSBs are state-designated agencies that provide a safety net of mental and behavioral health services.

The Georgia AAP has partnered with DBHDD to strengthen and enhance the working relationships between Pediatricians and their local CSB in a project we call Behavioral Health Too! The project ensures pediatricians are part of the System of Care, which focuses on how community-based services and support delivery systems can work together to support children and families with or at risk for mental health needs or other challenges.

Key goals of the project include: 1) promoting the SOC and highlighting family and youth peer support, 2) bringing awareness of mental health resources and supports such as CSBs, and 3) increasing bi-directional communication to improve health outcomes.

Contact

For immediate access to routine or crisis services related to mental health or substance use, please call the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800- 715-4225 or download My GCAL app to access GCAL via text and chat. GCAL is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year to help you or someone you care for in a crisis.

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You can still access these numbers for help: Crisis Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 Dial, text, or chat 9-8-8. For more information visit 988ga.org

GCAL & 9-8-8 Professionals Will

• Provide crisis intervention services over the phone
• Assist individuals in finding an open crisis or detox bed in Georgia
• Dispatch mobile crisis teams where appropriate
• Link individuals with behavioral health services