Survey finds Camden County needs psychiatric services

Molly McCue, board chairwoman for the recently formed Camden Behavioral Wellness, was not surprised when the results of a Psychiatric Needs Assessment indicated Camden County as a "psychiatric shortage area."

The results served as a strong "reality check" and a confirmation that Camden County is in critical need of additional psychiatric care, according to a recent news release.

According to McCue, the survey results served to reaffirm CBW's commitment to bridge the gaps in mental health services in Camden County.

Nearly 54 percent of the survey respondents stated a need for a psychiatrist in the last year. More than 40 percent had to wait more than one month for an appointment, with 23 percent having to travel to Jacksonville or Brunswick for services. Initial appointments to be evaluated by a psychiatrist to obtain medications essential for daily functioning can take as long as two to three months to schedule.

CBW board member Rob Mastroianni Sr., a major in the Camden County Sheriff's Office, sees firsthand the impact that lack of adequate psychiatric care makes on the county.

"When there is a mental health incident that requires attention from the Sheriff's Office, often the result is putting the person in a holding cell when they really need professional psychiatric care," Mastroianni said. "If we had more adequate psychiatric services, then evaluations could be more readily available, giving our office more options that could ultimately result in a more positive outcome for all concerned."

According to the National Institute of Mental Health and Department of Justice, people with untreated serious brain disorders comprise approximately 16 percent of the total jail and prison inmate population.

The idea for Camden Behavioral Wellness originated from the challenges encountered primarily by McCue in her work at Family Matters Counseling in St. Marys. McCue and her board hope to raise funds to bring a full-time psychiatrist to Camden County through private donations, employer-assisted revenue, grants and fundraising.

To get involved or to learn more about Camden Behavioral Wellness and the state of mental health services in Camden County, email Molly McCue at familymatter@tds.net.