In 2017, 4.5 percent (11.2 million) of Americans 18 years or older had an SMI, and it is estimated that 6.8 to 11.5 percent of children and youth have an SED. To address this challenge, SAMHSA has included in the FY2019 – FY2023 Strategic Plan a goal to “Reduce the impact of serious mental illness (SMI) and serious emotional disturbance (SED) and improve treatment and recovery support services through implementation of the comprehensive set of recommendations put forward by the Interdepartmental Serious Mental Illness Coordinating Committee (ISMICC).”
SAMHSA has a rich history of funding Systems of Care across the country. Implementation of these systems in rural communities is often challenging, in part due to factors such as culture and geography. These challenges require that implementers be well-grounded in community dynamics and demographics and that creative solutions be brought to the design of the framework for successful, rural systems.
Our panel will discuss the challenges, successes, and lessons learned from their experiences in the implementation of effective rural Systems of Care. Discussion will include research findings related to engaging students and families in rural educational settings, cultural considerations, and strategies for engaging youth in remote communities. Presenters will offer insights and recommendations of interest to those who are currently involved in this work and for those who are contemplating the implementation of a rural System of Care. This webinar will be of interest to all audiences.