NEW ORLEANS, LA -- The following information was released by the City of New Orleans:
In keeping with Mayor Landrieu's commitment to improve the quality of life for citizens of New Orleans, today, Mayor Landrieu and Health Commissioner Dr. Karen DeSalvo released a comprehensive Behavioral Health Resource Guide.
'As a City, we can improve the health of our population, and our aim is to ensure delivery of affordable, quality healthcare services for all residents,' said Mayor Mitch Landrieu. 'We invite New Orleanians to use this valuable information to help enhance their knowledge of available resources and make informed choices about health and health care.'
'Mental health and substance abuse are significant public health challenges in our City,' said Dr. Karen DeSalvo, the City's Health Commissioner. 'A critical first step towards tackling behavioral health challenges for our community is to link those in need with existing services.'
The Behavioral Health Resource Guide provides a comprehensive inventory of all mental health and substance abuse services and resources. It includes information about programs and services offered in community and clinic-based settings by area public and private sector providers and organizations. It also includes resources to help with accessing these services, such as information on public funding options and housing and supportive services throughout New Orleans, and websites with additional useful information.
The City worked in collaboration with the Obama Administration's Strong Cities, Strong Communities (SC2) Initiative, represented by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and with other partners in the local community to compile this guide. Strong Cities, Strong Communities (SC2) is a new federal-local government partnership designed to support local priorities through customized support and technical assistance in six pilot cities.
A copy of the guide can be found on the City's website at http://www.nola.gov/RESIDENTS/Health-Department/ .
