One in five U.S. adults experiences a mental health disorder each year, and this World Mental Health Day (October 10), the Florida Association of Managing Entities (FAME) encourages Floridians to learn more about mental health disorders, fight stigmas and share behavioral health resources with those in need. FAME encourages Floridians who need help with mental health disorders to speak with a behavioral health care professional or call the Florida 2-1-1 helpline.
“It is vital that we recognize the signs of mental illness and substance use disorder and encourage Floridians to seek support when needed,” said Natalie Kelly, CEO of the Florida Association of Managing Entities. “Mental health needs to be part of the discussion about overall health.”
The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 1 in 20 U.S. adults experiences a serious mental health disorder, while 17% of youths ages 6 to 17 experience a mental health disorder.
Managing Entities have a network of behavioral health care organizations to assist uninsured or underinsured individuals including children, expectant mothers, veterans, and the chronically homeless, through preventive and intervention services, like crisis counseling, assessments, or care coordination. Managing Entities support patients’ diverse needs with “wraparound services” that not only address mental health issues and substance use but also assist with housing, transportation, and employment.
Managing Entity community boards administer, manage, and ensure accountability of state and federal funds for behavioral health services, keeping oversight and accountability closest to the people they serve.
About the Florida Association of Managing Entities
The Florida Association of Managing Entities (FAME) is the statewide organization representing Florida’s seven Managing Entities. FAME’s mission is to advance the behavioral health recovery of individuals and their families in the state of Florida. More information about FAME is available at flmanagingentities.com.
