news release

Through sponsorship from Representative Erin Grall and Senator Debbie Mayfield, the Florida Legislature recently voted to support increasing mental health treatment access in Indian River and its neighboring counties. Mental Health Association in Indian River County (MHAIRC), a non-profit United Way agency of excellence and the local affiliate of national Mental Health America, recognizes that unmet mental health needs negatively affect residents and the whole community if left untreated.

Since 1978, we have worked to identify and fill gaps in existing mental health services. Community mental health concerns are even greater from negative effects of the pandemic. MHA care surveys from April 2020 to March 2021 showed 42% of those needing same day help had their mental health impacted negatively by COVID. We are grateful for the opportunity give to us by the Florida House and Senate to expand our mental health services, including psychiatric treatment in Indian River, St. Lucie and Brevard counties.  MHAIRC’s Walk-In & Counseling Center provides immediate access to mental health care. Individuals of any age without an appointment can receive emotional and behavioral health help just by walking in. We provide scheduled visits for individual, family and group therapy; psycho-educational wellness classes; case management; and adult psychiatry/medication management.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, remember that “It’s okay to get help!” Please join us in applauding the Florida Legislature in supporting increased community mental health treatment access and expansion of MHAIRC’s effective care services to those in need.