Author: Kailee Curtis

Local Health Department

Behavioral Health Services

Mental illnesses and substance use disorders are common in the United States, affecting tens of millions of people each year. Mental illness and substance use can affect physical health and reduce quality of life. Several local health departments (LHDs) offer behavioral health services to provide substance use treatment and recovery and improve mental health. These services may include early intervention, outpatient care, intensive outpatient care, and education for mental illnesses and substance use. These services provide clients with resources that they need to address their behavioral health.

Key Positions
Behavioral Health Therapists
Behavioral Health Secretaries
Behavioral Health Supervisors

In Michigan, the rate of drug-related traffic crash injuries and drug-related traffic crash deaths among adult drivers increased by 31% and 30%, respectively, from 2006 to 2015.

Meets Public Health Standards:

	Michigan Public Health Code
	Michigan Local Public Health Accreditation
	Public Health Accreditation Board

Services:
Local health departments that participate in substance use treatment and recovery services offer:
Assessments
Therapy
Coordinating Care
Specialty Programs
Treatment Enhancements
Prevention/Early Intervention
Outpatient
Intensive Outpatient

Created by the Barry-Eaton District Health Department for the Michigan Association of Local Public Health with funding from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. August 2018.

Goals:
Behavioral health services:
Reduce individual use of alcohol and other substances
Help individuals accomplish their version of hopeful, healthy and meaningful lives through prevention, treatment and recovery supports
Facilitate a community where people can become the best versions of themselves through wellness and recovery

Impact:
Alcohol and drug use can be significant causes of illness and death. Addressing addiction is a public health priority for many communities.