The article entitled “Fayette address = poor mental health care” in the Nov. 3 issue of The Citizen raised some critical issues in the field of behavioral health care. My thanks are extended to the individual who expressed those concerns.

I represent a public system of community care for citizens of Fayette, Butts, Henry, Lamar, Pike, Spalding and Upson counties who have mental illnesses, mental retardation, and substance abuse disorders. During our 25 years of providing treatment and support services in these seven counties, we have encountered and confronted the presence of stigma. The places where stigma is most noticeable are in the employment field and in the availability of housing opportunities.

Over the last few years our staff have experienced positive changes. From July 1, 1998, through June 30, 1999, we placed 47 people with mental illnesses in jobs across the seven county service area. I am truly humbled by our consumers who decided it was worth the risk to step out into the job market, some for the first time in their lives.

Most recently, our staff at the local mental retardation service center assisted an individual in searching for a job. Applications were submitted to more than 30 local businesses, in an attempt to locate a position close to home. To date, we have not been successful.

Our service system offers a wide array of services to Fayette County citizens. Some services are located in Fayetteville (outpatient counseling, crisis management, supported and specialized employment services). Residential crisis stabilization and detoxification services are located in Lamar county. Fayette county residents can access mental health day services in Henry county. Several housing options exist in many of our counties to meet residential needs of consumers.

Over the past several years, state resources have declined for serving people with disabilities. Expensive services cannot be replicated in each of our counties. Arranging transportation to services in other counties is challenging, but doable.

I support the appeal made by the writer of “Fayette address = poor mental health care.” Contact your county and city commissioners and legislators to raise their awareness of the need for more services for people with mental illnesses, mental retardation, and substance abuse problems. They don't want to hear from me, a paid staff person. Your personal stories matter to them. You do make a difference.

Cathy Johnson

Executive Director

McIntosh Trail Community Service Board

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