The Dutchess County Department of Mental Health (DMH) continues its series of public forums on mental health this fall to engage with residents and families affected by mental health and substance-use issues, gather their input and provide information on County resources. Each forum will offer residents the opportunity to share their experiences and give input to DMH about the services available and needed for:

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities;

Alcohol Substance Use Addiction and Recovery; and

Mental Health Needs for Youth and Mental Health Needs for Adults.

County Executive Sue Serino said, “Our County’s mental health department, together with community partners, offers a wide range of excellent mental health resources. Our aim, through these upcoming forums, is to share information about these important programs with residents to help those living with mental health issues – and their families – connect with the resources they need.  These forums are also a valuable way for us to hear from residents about their thoughts on our existing services and areas for improvement.”

The upcoming forums are scheduled for:

• Thursday, September 26^th, 5:30 p.m.; Dover Middle School Gymnasium, 2368 Route 22, Dover Plains
• Tuesday, October 1^st, 5:30 p.m.; Beacon High School Cafeteria, 101 Matteawan Road, Beacon
  Spanish and American Sign Language interpretation will be available at each forum. These forums are free and open to the public; families, caregivers and local stakeholders are encouraged to attend. All input received will help DMH shape its 2025 Local Services Plan, which establishes long-term goals and objectives consistent with statewide goals and objectives. Community partners will also have representatives and informational tables at each forum to connect directly with residents.

DMH Commissioner Jean-Marie Niebuhr said, “These public discussions are a valuable opportunity for the public to inform us about their needs, as well as for us to inform residents about our services and identify areas where we can enhance those offerings. The feedback we receive from users is essential for our future planning, and we invite all input.”

To encourage even more attendance and increase accessibility for residents, the department has been hosting the annual forums at various locations across Dutchess County. The series began in the spring with forums held in Poughkeepsie and Pine Plains.

For those unable to attend, DMH welcomes written comments. Individuals may submit comments online at dutchessny.gov/forumcomments, fax comments to (845) 486-2829 or mail them to: DMH Forum Comments; 230 North Road; Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.