Friday, August 29, 2003

Plan would close facility (Georgia)
Ledger-Enquirer story - "The state Department of Human Resources has recommended the closing of West Central Georgia Regional Hospital -- a move that would put more than 400 people out of work and force around 200 patients to look for another treatment center. ... Opened in 1974, the Columbus facility provides in-patient care to people in 28 Georgia counties. It offers treatment in adult mental health, adolescent long-term care and immediate care for the mentally retarded. In 2001, it served 2,310 clients."  
  

Officials call for expanded inpatient programs for alcohol and drug treatment (Connecticut)
Story in The Advocate - "State and local officials are calling for more treatment programs for people addicted to drugs and alcohol, after hearing the plight of clients at Connecticut's only inpatient treatment center. Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz and Middletown Mayor Domenique Thornton said they found it hard to believe that the state only has one program that serves 120 clients - the drug and alcohol treatment center at Connecticut Valley Hospital - and that it is facing reduced aid from the state."  
  

Health problems plague 9/11 workers
Daily Star story - "Nearly two years after the World Trade Center attack, a medical screening program continues to reveal a surprisingly high rate of physical and mental problems among cleanup and rescue workers. ... On the mental health side of the study, about 19 percent of patients have been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder - at least double the rate seen in the general population..."  
  

Mental health center proposed (Illinois)
Story at the Journal-Star - "A 40-bed mental health center for emergency and long-term care could open in Galesburg by the time Maytag Corp. closes its plant next year, state Rep. Don Moffitt said Wednesday. Moffitt, R-Gilson, discussed his idea with U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, and other local officials at a luncheon at Knox College. Moffitt said the plant's closing could increase the need for services missing since the closure of Zeller Mental Health Care Center in Peoria."  
  

Disaster and Mental Health Problems in Teens
Story at Ivanhoe.com - "Teens directly involved in a disaster situation are susceptible to a number of mental health issues. A new study shows treating anxiety, depression, aggression and alcohol abuse needs to be a priority after teens have been involved in a devastating situation."