Topics Related to Mental Health

PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today released a report detailing progress increasing access to quality mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services for all North Carolinians. The year-one progress report on the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services (DMH/DD/SUS) 2024-2029 strategic plan highlights achievements in the seven priority areas geared toward creating a comprehensive mental health care system that works for everyone.

PRESS RELEASE — Today Governor Stein signed an executive order to improve behavioral health care and public safety in North Carolina. Executive Order 33 directs several cabinet agencies to take action strengthening how the state’s behavioral health and criminal justice systems coordinate and serve the public. The Governor was joined by Kelly Crosbie, NCDHHS’ Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services; Secretary of Public Safety Jeff Smythe; Secretary of Adult Correction Leslie Dismukes; Director of State Human Resources Staci Meyer;

PRESS RELEASE — Today Governor Josh Stein visited RHA Health Services’ Alamance County Behavioral Health Center in Burlington to host a roundtable discussion with community leaders highlighting the critical role that crisis and mental health services play in keeping North Carolinians healthy and safe. The Alamance Center is a partnership of county, state, and local management entities (LMEs) that supports individuals with developmental disabilities, substance abuse, and other behavioral health needs.

PRESS RELEASE — In recognition of Maternal Health Awareness Day, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is launching the “I Gave Birth” campaign to support better birth outcomes for mothers in North Carolina in the weeks after childbirth. “I Gave Birth” collaborates with 48 participating hospitals and providers to improve postpartum care during the “fourth trimester,” which is the first 6-8 weeks after childbirth. Each new mother receives a bracelet to serve as a visual reminder for the mother, her family and medical providers for vigilant monitoring of the mother’s

PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is recognizing one year of service for Secretary Dev Sangvai. In 2025, Secretary Sangvai worked to advance key priorities including increasing access to and improving affordability of care, investing in whole-person health by prioritizing mental health and supporting North Carolina’s most vulnerable children.

MEDIA ADVISORY — Credentialed media are invited to attend the opening of a new resource for people reentering their community following incarceration. NCDHHS Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Disorders Kelly Crosbie will be on-site to celebrate the opening of AYA House in Rowan County on Friday, Jan. 16, at 10:30 a.m.

PRESS RELEASE — The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today awarded North Carolina $213 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). These funds will improve health care access for rural North Carolinians. In November, North Carolina submitted its application for these funds with bipartisan support from the state’s congressional delegation. These funds are awarded for 2026, and North Carolina will be eligible for more funding each year for the next five years.

PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced the launch of the Licensed Workforce Loan Repayment Program, a $20 million initiative to recruit and retain licensed professionals who provide mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI) services in rural and underserved communities.

PRESS RELEASE — Governor Josh Stein, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western NC (GROW NC) announce an additional investment to build on the success of the WNC Thrive initiative, one of many NCDHHS efforts to help children and families recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. This announcement brings the total investment in additional resources for children, youth, and families in the 22 counties hit hardest by Helene, including free after-school, weekend, and summer camp programs, to a total of $3.75 million.

PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and First Lady Anna Stein today unveiled a pilot program focused on helping people who have severe mental health needs and are involved in the justice system successfully reenter their communities while reducing their likelihood of reoffending. The $9.5 million investment will create Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) teams based in Pitt, New Hanover, Wake, Durham, Buncombe, and Mecklenburg counties.