County Executive David Crowley
Press Release

County Executive David Crowley Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month

Milwaukee County is working to expand behavioral health services and address mental health challenges

By - May 14th, 2024 10:47 am

MILWAUKEE – May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is highlighting efforts to expand access to mental health resources and supportive services for residents and families in his latest Public Service Announcement. County Executive Crowley’s administration is working to enhance mental health care accessibility and improve outcomes for individuals in need.

“Expanding access to mental health services has been a cornerstone of our mission to achieve racial equity and ensure Milwaukee County becomes the healthiest community in Wisconsin,” said County Executive Crowley. “This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s recommit to the work ahead. Through innovative public-private partnerships and collaboration, we are breaking down barriers and helping people experiencing mental health challenges receive the care and support they need.”

Relocation of Mental Health Emergency Center: The strategic relocation from Wauwatosa to the King Park neighborhood has made the Mental Health Emergency Center more accessible to those requiring urgent care, ensuring critical services reach individuals experiencing mental health or substance use disorder-related crises. During its first year of operations, the center served over 7,000 community members.

Deployment of Mental Health Navigators: Recognizing the importance of proactive support, County Executive Crowley’s administration deployed Mental Health Navigators throughout the community. These dedicated professionals provide essential resources and assistance to individuals navigating mental health challenges or substance use disorder crises.

Expansion of Mental Health Clinics and Crisis Stabilization Houses: Under County Executive Crowley’s leadership, Milwaukee County opened additional mental health clinics and crisis stabilization houses. These facilities play a vital role in ensuring individuals can readily access necessary support and treatment, fostering a continuum of care approach to mental health services.

Restructuring of Behavioral Health Services: Under Crowley’s leadership, the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services Division has undergone a comprehensive restructuring. This strategic overhaul aims to expand mental health and substance use disorder services across a continuum of care and “No Wrong Door” philosophy, ensuring comprehensive support for individuals at every stage of their recovery journey.

Collaboration with CBS 58: In partnership with CBS 58, Milwaukee County is launching “Take a Moment for Your Mental Health,” an initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting mental wellness. This collaborative effort, led by the Milwaukee County Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) and Behavioral Health Services (BHS) Division, underscores the collective commitment to prioritizing mental health in our community.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can receive immediate support by calling the Milwaukee County 24-Hour Crisis Line at 414-257-7222. Learn more about Milwaukee County behavioral health resources and services HERE.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

Mentioned in This Press Release

Neighborhoods:

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Comments

  1. milwmomformentalhealthcare says:

    Milwaukee County is not addressing the needs of people with SMI, or serious mental illness, who have anosognosia and don’t realize they are ill. They think the FBI IS really out to get them, or they really ARE the anti-Christ, etc. They often end up homeless or in the County Jail or Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF). Medications are extremely effective at allowing people to live a normal life, but they aren’t treated. There is an extreme shortage of psych beds in Milwaukee County and privatization hasn’t worked. Granite Hills was supposed to offer 120 beds, but barely has 40 open. Other hospitals have closed their psych units. Few will take the sickest patients. THIS IS A CRISIS! Patients and their families are suffering! Please help!

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