Community Mental Health
The Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH) plans, oversees and coordinates services for individuals with behavioral health issues and their families. Behavioral health includes mental illness, developmental/intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.
We have created an online resource directory that we hope residents and professionals will use to locate the many and varied behavioral health resources in Westchester County.
DCMH MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health is to enrich and enhance the lives of children, adolescents, adults, and families living with mental health concerns, substance misuse, addictions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or the co-occurrence of any of these issues, to reach their full potential. This mission is achieved by providing a system of care guided by values and ethical practices which prioritize equitable access to strength-based, trauma-informed, culturally, racially, and linguistically responsive services that are coordinated and individualized to meet their needs.
Women’s History Month Brings Thoughts of Mental Health Care
As we celebrate women during the month of March, it is important to reflect on the mental health issues that women may face every day. Too often these issues are ignored, as some women go untreated. Whether it is biological factors, like hormonal or reproductive issues, or social issues like discrimination, domestic violence, or societal inequality, women can face many obstacles to treatment.
According to Mental Health America, over one-third of women (36.7%) have been diagnosed with depression in their lifetime compared to only 20.4% of men. These numbers are even higher in Black, Hispanic and Asian American women. Approximately 24% of women in the US currently live with depression.
On average, women in the US reach menopause at the age of 52. The period of time before menopause is known as perimenopause and very often it is a time where depression can be prevalent in women. A high rate of suicide in women has been noted during the ages of 45 to 54 years old. This may be due to biological changes that come with transition to menopause. Symptoms of perimenopausal depression include:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Low energy
- Difficulty with memory and concentration
Co-occurring conditions can also factor into women’s mental health conditions. Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa have a strong relationship to depression in women. It is important to note that eating disorders, while more common among women ages 16-25, are still prevalent in middle age women.
While men are more likely to die by suicide, women report attempting suicide more often than men. The rate for suicide among US women is highest between the ages of 45 and 64. It is lowest among girls ages 10 to 14 and women 75 and older.
Finding effective treatment is important. Whether it is the use of medications or other therapies, women should consult their primary physicians to seek assistance. Mental health is a priority.
If you are in need of support, you can call, text, or chat with the 988 lifeline. Available 24/7, the lifeline works to give all people access to support that reflects their needs.
If you or someone you know needs support now, contact:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988 or chat here – you will be directed to local resources
- You can also learn more about 988 and have access to related national information by visiting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline website.
- Crisis Prevention and Response Team: (914) 925-5959
- NYS Substance Abuse HOPEline: (877) 8-HOPENY / Text 467369
- Or, you can always call 911 in any emergency
For more information about the Department of Community Mental Health’s programs and services, please call us at 914-995-5220, Monday- Friday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm or see our Quick Links on the left or our menu at the top right-hand corner of your screen.