Dane County is making big investments in mental and behavioral health during the COVID-19 pandemic
and beyond.
The pandemic has negatively impacted many struggling with mental illness and addiction in our community. Dane County’s commitment to addressing behavioral health challenges has existed for years, and with the help of our latest efforts, will remain a top priority during the pandemic and beyond.
Previously, Dane County built a school-based mental health program, partnered with community centers to provide youth on-site mental health programing, and expanded opportunities to address trauma and addiction. Now, we’re opening the Behavioral Health Resource Center (BHRC) and including funding in the next budget to plan a mental health triage and
restoration center.
The BHRC will serve as a one-stop shop by bridging private and public mental and behavioral health care providers, making it easier for patients, their families, and even providers to navigate care and advocate for loved ones. It’s believed to be the first of its kind in the nation.
The project will be funded by Dane County at more than $1 million a year. Hours of operation will initially be from 7 am‒7 pm. We hope to have 24/7 service operational in
early 2021.
Additionally, County Board Chair Analiese Eicher and I are including $300,000 in the 2021 budget to plan a mental health triage and restoration center. This initiative will divert those with behavioral health challenges from the criminal justice system and further extend recovery services available in our community.
The BHRC will be grounded in the concept of “no wrong door,” and individuals will be able to access services by walking in, receiving a referral from a community partner, or being brought by law enforcement.
As the months of the COVID-19 pandemic accumulate, we know access to mental and behavioral health services will continue to be vital. With the BHRC and mental health triage and restoration center, we hope to coordinate care and improve outcomes for Dane
County residents.