Behavioral Health

Officials with the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals announced today that they have received one of the largest federal grants ever awarded for crisis counseling. The $34.7 million grant is from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and will provide for the continuation of mental health services through Louisiana Spirit to residents affected by last year’s hurricanes.

The Department of Health and Hospitals has opened 10 adult acute care beds at New Orleans Adolescent Hospital, with 10 more beds to open in the coming weeks. This is in addition to the 15 child and adolescent beds that reopened at the facility on June 7.

Studies continue to show that people of all ages, races and backgrounds who were victims of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina are suffering from stress and depression. Just last week, a study by a Tulane University researcher and sociologist analyzed the levels of stress experienced by those affected by Katrina.

An increase in suicide deaths is an unfortunate reality following natural disasters such as Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Mental health professionals say the risk for suicides begins to increase six to nine months following the disaster. In order to better understand the potential for increased suicides, as well as implement strategies to prevent suicides, a Suicide Prevention Summit is scheduled for this week.

A community meeting has been scheduled for March 20 in Lafayette to allow citizens in the bayou region of the state to discuss the area’s mental health care needs. Consumers of mental health services and health care providers are invited to attend.

A community meeting has been scheduled for next Wednesday, March 22 to allow citizens in the Florida parishes to discuss mental health care needs.

Similar to others with addictive disorders, those with compulsive or problem gambling disorders are at increased risk during difficult times. As Louisiana recovers from the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, health officials are taking steps to address this issue.

A community meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 7 to allow citizens in the bayou region of the state to discuss mental health care needs.

Department of Health and Hospitals Secretary Dr. Fred Cerise today announced the appointment of Dr. Kathleen Crapanzano as Medical Director for DHH’s Office of Mental Health.

The holiday season is here, and although this is usually a joyous time of year, it can be an especially stressful time for those who experienced loss because of the recent hurricanes in Louisiana. To help people cope, the Department of Health and Hospitals-Office of Mental Health is offering counseling services and stress-relief tips.