North Carolina officials to host statewide town hall on mental health support

North Carolina health officials are hosting a statewide town hall to answer questions related to mental health.

Thursday evening’s town hall-style meeting will be both virtual and in-person, with limited space available at the Hilton Garden Inn in Raleigh.

The event marks a partnership between the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD). It will be hosted by NCDHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley, who will answer questions along with Kelly Crosbie, director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services.

According to a news release, updates will be provided on several initiatives including Medicaid expansion, and how existing funding will be used to address critical needs.

Other topics expected to be addressed include: reentry programs for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) being released from prison, expanding home-based and community care for those with IDD or traumatic brain injury, strengthening the caregiving workforce, and offering competitive employment opportunities for those with mental health diagnoses.

The town hall takes place Thursday at 6 p.m. Those wishing to participate virtually can register through the NCCDD website.