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Community Mental Health

The Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH) plans, oversees and coordinates services for individuals with behavioral health issues and their families. Behavioral health includes mental illness, developmental/intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.

We have created an online resource directory that we hope residents and professionals will use to locate the many and varied behavioral health resources in Westchester County.

DCMH MISSION STATEMENT        

The mission of the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health is to enrich and enhance the lives of children, adolescents, adults, and families living with mental health concerns, substance misuse, addictions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or the co-occurrence of any of these issues, to reach their full potential.  This mission is achieved by providing a system of care guided by values and ethical practices which prioritize equitable access to strength-based, trauma-informed, culturally, racially, and linguistically responsive services that are coordinated and individualized to meet their needs.

March is Women’s History Month

As we welcome the month of March, we dedicate ourselves to highlighting women and their mental health.

Good mental health is essential to overall well-being, and in today’s world, that can sometimes be a challenge. The Office of Women’s Health of the US Department of Health & Human Services reports that more than one in five women in the United States experienced a mental health condition in the past year. Many mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, affect more women than men, or affect women in different ways. Most serious mental health conditions can be treated, and recovery is possible, so people can get better and live well.

During March, everyone should take time to reflect on the women in their lives and ask them to prioritize their own mental health. Let them know that it is okay to not always be okay. Share with them that there are safe places to go if they are struggling, and that #988 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and free of charge.

Having tools to be mentally and physically healthy is essential to one’s well-being. Below are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Take time for yourself to do something you want - or nothing at all
  • Get a good night's rest every night, 7-9 hours per night is recommended for adults
  • Participate in regular exercise, 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity is recommended for adults
  • Get outside and get some sunshine whenever possible
  • Try relaxation techniques like meditation, mindfulness, or prayer
  • Tell a trusted family member or friend if you are struggling with your mental health
  • Consider talking to a mental health professional

Remember - if you are in need of support, you can call, text, or chat with the 988 Lifeline, it’s available 24/7.

If you or someone you know needs support now, contact:

  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988 or chat here – you will be directed to local resources
  • You can also learn more about 988 and have access to related national information by visiting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline website.
  • Crisis Prevention and Response Team: (914) 925-5959
  • NYS Substance Abuse HOPEline: (877) 8-HOPENY / Text 467369
  • Or, you can always call 911 in any emergency

For more information about the Department of Community Mental Health’s programs and services, please call us at 914-995-5220, Monday- Friday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm or see our Quick Links on the left or our menu at the top right-hand corner of your screen.