Kentucky Secures $17 Million for Mental Health and Addiction Services

The Beshear administration in Kentucky has announced the acquisition of $17 million in federal grant funding aimed at enhancing mental health and addiction services across the state. These funds were obtained through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support the 988 crisis services, youth mental health initiatives, and recovery efforts.

Governor Andy Beshear emphasized the importance of access to healthcare, stating, "Healthcare is a basic human right, and my administration is continuing to take action to expand and protect access to these essential services that save lives." He reassured Kentuckians struggling with mental health or addiction that support is available, affirming the commitment of Team Kentucky to ensure access to necessary resources.

A number of projects will benefit from this funding:

1. **988 Crisis Improvement Project**: $7,391,219 will be allocated to enhance Kentucky's response to all 988 contacts, including calls, chats, and texts, focusing on at-risk populations for suicide and overdose.

2. **Early Identification and Treatment for Youth**: $2.6 million will be dedicated to identifying youth and young adults aged 25 and under who are clinically at high risk for psychosis, aiming to prevent or lessen the severity of psychotic disorders.

3. **Expansion of Youth Behavioral Health Mobile Crisis Teams**: $3 million will support the creation and enhancement of mobile crisis teams for children, youth, and adults in mental health and addiction crises.

4. **Doula Support for Women with Addiction**: $3,238,083 will be used to strengthen integrated addiction and maternal mental health services for pregnant and postpartum women and their families.

5. **School Crisis Response Network**: $600,000 will be designated to assist schools in Kentucky with crisis preparedness, raising mental health awareness, and providing care connections after traumatic events.

The Beshear administration plans to continue expanding mental health services and coverage for Kentuckians, building on the initiatives established since he took office.