On October 1, 2013, the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) was established combining treatment and support for residents with mental and/or substance use disorders. According to the DBH website, ‘the new Department merges the former Department of Mental Health and the Addiction Prevention Recovery Administration.’  The site also notes that ‘the new Department presents a greater opportunity to coordinate care to improve the quality of life for thousands of residents.’

According to the DBH website, ‘more than 30,000 District residents are receiving treatment for mental or substance use disorders from about 60 certified community-based providers. A significant number have both mental health and substance abuse disorders at the same time. Research shows that integrated treatment leads to reduced substance use, improved psychiatric symptoms and functioning, decreased hospitalization and overall improved quality of life.’

The site notes that the address and telephone number for all services will remain the same.

For more information: http://dmh.dc.gov/release/new-department-behavioral-health