The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is set to host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on April 10, from 6 to 7 p.m. The discussion will focus on supporting mental well-being and finding resources for individuals or those experiencing a mental health crisis.
Participants for the event include Lisa DeCiantis, Chief Clinical Officer for Mental Health Wellness, Treatment and Recovery at NCDHHS, Sandy Feutz, Chief Operating Officer at RHA Health Services, and Holly Provance Doggett, Executive Director of NAMI North Carolina.
The event is prompted by data indicating nearly one in four adults in North Carolina report symptoms of anxiety or depression. The discussion highlights the availability of mental health crisis services which offer non-judgmental, confidential, and compassionate care to connect residents with necessary resources and support, typically at minimal or no cost. These services cater to people of all ages, addressing social or family issues, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, substance use, or the need for conversation.
The fireside chat will be accessible live via the NCDHHS Facebook and YouTube channels, allowing viewers to submit questions. Additionally, a tele-town hall format enables participation by phone, where attendees can listen and pose questions. The dial-in number for the tele-town hall is 855-756-7520 Ext. 120794#. Discussions will cover accessing mental health information and resources, understanding crisis services, and determining when to seek help for oneself or loved ones.
NCDHHS has also introduced a Crisis Services page available in both English and Spanish, featuring a searchable map to locate community crisis centers and a zip code-based search for mobile crisis teams. For immediate support, individuals can call, text, or chat with 988 around the clock; they may also engage with peers through the Peer Warmline at 855-PEERS-NC. Trained mobile crisis teams are available to provide assistance in a safe location, and community crisis centers offer rapid, in-person support from licensed clinicians.
