Behavioral Health (Mental Health and Substance Use)

What is Behavioral Health?

Behavioral Health is a term meant to encompass both mental health and substance use disorders. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), behavioral health refers to mental/emotional well-being and/or actions that affect wellness. Behavioral health problems include substance use disorders and serious psychological distress, suicide, and mental disorders. This definition acknowledges that a person can be dealing with one or both mental illness and substance use disorders congruently.

Please visit the Mental Health and Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Pages to learn more about Mason County efforts to help those dealing with behavioral health issues. In addition, visit the Treatment Resources pages to access a list of resource inside and outside of Mason County for those experiencing mental illness and substance use disorder.

Treatment Sales Tax

Mental health and substance use (behavioral health) prevention and treatment programs in Mason County are funded in part by the Treatment Sales Tax (TST) funds. The purpose of the tax is to provide the operation or delivery of chemical dependency or mental health treatment programs and services. In July of 2018, a total of $250,000 will be distributed in Mason County to conduct this work.

 

NEW: Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  • 988 services are available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages.

  • 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365, connecting those experiencing a mental health, or suicidal crisis with trained crisis counselors. Those who are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support can also dial 988.

  • People contacting 988 are not required to provide any personal data to receive services. Calls may be monitored or recorded for quality assurance or training purposes. The network system has several safeguards to address concerns about privacy.

  • 988 does not replace any crisis call centers in Washington state. It is an addition to the state’s network of crisis center providers. The current NSPL number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), will remain active along with 988.

  • Access is available through every landline, cell phone, and voice-over internet device in the U.S.