Mental health organization changes name to reflect its outreach

July 17--The Mental Health Association in Cleveland County has served residents for over 50 years.

This month the non-profit group changed its name to Mental Health America (MHA) of the South Mountains Inc.

The new name reflects the local group's expansion into Lincoln County and its affiliation with the national MHA organization.

Katie Munger will continue as director of the new group, and Patty Schaeffer is the new program coordinator.

As part of national MHA, the South Mountains group will have access to more resources and be able to promote legislation that will positively benefit individuals and their families affected by mental health challenges.

"We are going to have a bigger voice," Munger said. "Currently, we are in support of House Bill 451. This bill recommends the increase of research regarding ways to prevent suicide among minors, veterans and emergency responders in North Carolina."

The expansion of services into Lincoln County is in response to a need.

"I live in Lincoln County and know the area," she said. "Last fall, an 11-year-old died there. He was not on anybody's radar. I started getting requests for (suicide prevention) training."

Partners Behavioral Health Management, the local management entity/managed care organization under contract with the NC Department of Health and Human Services, also asked Munger and her staff to provide education and support in Lincoln County.

Training provided by MHA is free and available to everyone. The MHA also has a speaker's bureau and can provide a speaker for club meetings or church groups.

For more information about any program offered by the MHA of the South Mountains, visit www.mhasouthmountains.org or email mha@mhasouthmountains.org.

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