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‘Trauma – The Invisible Epidemic,’ A Free Public Webinar on May 26, Will Discuss the Many Forms of Trauma and Coping Strategies
LOS ANGELES, May 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — In recognition of May’s National Mental Health Awareness Month, Discovery Behavioral Heath, a nationwide network of evidenced-based treatment centers, will host a free-to-the-public webinar entitled “Trauma – The Invisible Epidemic” on Thursday, May 26 at 10 am to 11:30 am PST. A panel of speakers, including a therapist, an author and a filmmaker, will discuss trauma from different perspectives.
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Adolescents Face Converging Health Crises As They Return to School, Says Former High School Teacher Turned Clinical Health Professional
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Amid a surging COVID-19 health crisis, the celebration of September as National Recovery Month is more important than ever, especially for the nation’s adolescents as they return to school and face unprecedented mental health and substance use problems, says Peter Fowler, a clinical health professional and the Director of Education with Discovery Behavioral Health.
This is a perfect storm for adolescents already struggling with mental illness, and now combined with a global pandemic.
Each September National Recovery Month works to promote and support new evidence-based mental health and addiction treatment and recovery practices, the emergence of a strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and community members across the nation who make recovery in all its forms possible.
While the public’s attention is understandably focused on the resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is now registering once again 1,000 deaths daily, it is overshadowing other major health crises – notably, mental illness, including depression and eating disorders, and substance use disorder (alcohol and drug addiction), and especially among youth.
“Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. They have experienced stress, anxiety and isolation during a time of life when identities are being fully formed and based in part on relationships and feedback received from peers,” says Fowler, a former high school teacher in New York City.
Mental illness is a serious public health problem of all ages in the U.S., however, among youth the suicide rate is increasing, recently surpassing the homicide rate for the first time. In 2017, there were more than 6,200 suicide deaths among adolescents and young adults ages 15-24, making it the second-leading cause of death for that age group.
Concurrent with rise in mental illness has been a dramatic spike drug in overdose deaths, which rose nearly 30 percent in 2020 to a record 93,000, according to preliminary statistics from the CDC. According to the most recent statistics available from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 4,777 youth died from a drug overdose in 2019.
Before the pandemic, there was a consensus among medical professionals that America’s worse health problem was the rapidly increasing opioid crisis. “Even though 2020 saw a dramatic increase in overdose deaths, the news barely registered with the public because of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. At any other time, this would have been front-page news, which would have led to more awareness of the issue and the need for treatment options,” says Fowler.
Of course, the COVID -19 virus and its highly contagious Delta variant is reeking its own level of unprecedented anxiety and stress among school-aged youth. Last month, it was reported that nearly 94,000 children were diagnosed with COVID, representing 15% of the total who were infected in the U.S. As well, adolescents have been hospitalized for COVID-19 at nearly three times the typical hospitalization rate for flu, and almost one-third required intensive care, according the latest CDC report covering cases in 14 states.
In his current role as head of education for DBH – a network of 123 mental health and substance use treatment centers in 12 states – Fowler has his pulse on these intersecting health crises. He notes that substance use disorder commonly occurs with mental illness, such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders, in adolescent patients at DBH centers.
“What we are seeing right now is a perfect storm for adolescents who were already struggling with higher rates of mental health issues now combined with the struggles that come with a global pandemic. This has exacerbated issues such as physical health, mental health issues, and substance use in individuals already uniquely sensitive due to their propensity to gather (mis)information from social media and their close proximity to one another in school,” he says.
What can parents do about it? Entitled “Not Just A Phase,” this public-service video outlines adolescent behavior that might signal a developing or continuing mental health problem: https://discoverymood.com/mental-health-awareness-month/.
To read the full article, CLICK HERE
Discovery Behavioral Health Opens New Residential Center in Tampa Bay Area for Adolescent Mental Health Services
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 12, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc. an expanding network of evidence-based mental health, substance abuse and eating disorder treatment centers, has opened a new mental health services center for adolescents in Dade City, Fla.
Located in the Tampa Bay area, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program Dade City is a 14-bed residential treatment facility that provides care for those in need of residential treatment. Treatment employs a variety of evidence-based modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy , dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and more.
“Discovery Behavioral Health has seen a recent surge in the demand for mental health services fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic,” states John Peloquin, President & CEO. “It has always been our company’s mission to improve access to quality behavioral healthcare, but it’s more important than ever during this national crisis.”
Mental illness is a serious public health problem of all ages in the U.S., however, among youth the suicide rate is increasing, recently surpassing the homicide rate for the first time. In 2017, there were more than 6,200 suicide deaths among adolescents and young adults ages 15-24, making it the second-leading cause of death for that age group.
Compared to the national average, Florida’s suicide rate is higher, making it one of the leading causes of death among all Floridians, and the overall number of suicides in the state has been on the rise. An annual average of about 47,000 adolescents aged 12–17 in the state received treatment in the past year for their depression, a mental illness linked to suicide.
“The number one predictor of successful therapy is the quality of the relationship between the patient and the therapist. Since mood disorders disrupt and impair relationships, our program focuses on building interpersonal skills into every interaction, therapeutic, social and academic. Here, patients benefit from one-on-one therapeutic support and group sessions in an encouraging environment where they can safely observe and practice these new skills that are transferable to home,” says George Livengood, MS, LMFT, Vice President of Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program.
“Adolescents were particularly vulnerable to mental health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. They experienced stress, anxiety and isolation during a time of life when identities are being fully formed and based in part on relationships and feedback received from peers,” says Livengood.
Now with the opening of the school year, center includes academic performance as part of treatment. Research shows that adolescents exhibiting strong mental health are likely to have better academic achievement.
“Through our education assistance program, we focus on anxiety, assertive communication, time management and other issues associated with interpersonal skills, adolescent academic performance and attendance. Academic work is also supported and managed by an education liaison,” says Livengood.
At the Dade City DBH center, medication management is available by board-certified psychiatrists, as well as individual sessions, medication education, psycho-pharmacology groups and collaboration with families and outpatient providers. The center’s education assistance program addresses anxiety, assertive communication, time management and other issues associated with academic performance and attendance. Continued academic work is supported and managed by an education liaison.
Familial integration into the overall treatment program is also a hallmark of the center’s treatment. “The family and support system are considered integral members of the treatment team. We honor the family and support system as experts on their loved one while we provide care and clinical guidance throughout the recovery process. Once a patient is finished with treatment, they and their families or support system can access free weekly support groups, an extensive referral network and aftercare help,” says Livengood.
During the pandemic, Discovery Behavioral Health has initiated special safety measures to protect patients, visitors and staff. Under its COVID Clean Commitment program, all patients are screened prior to arrival at their centers, and all rooms all sanitized at least once daily, among other hygiene and sanitation protocols.
Discovery Behavioral Health Opens New Center in Beavercreek, OR for Adolescent Mental Health Services
LOS ANGELES, April 12, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., an expanding network of evidence-based mental health, substance use and eating disorder treatment centers, has opened a new mental health program in Beavercreek, Oregon (about 20 miles south of Portland). The residential treatment program, branded Discovery Mood and Anxiety Program, offers gender inclusive treatment for no more than 14 adolescents, ages 11 – 17.
Located in the Pacific Northwest’s Clackamas County, Oregon, the licensed treatment program offers 24-hour care in a homelike environment that provides both structure and a high level of individual attention to each patient. Amy Brown, President of the Mental Health Division for Discovery Behavioral Health says “Our program offers personalized treatment for adolescents struggling with a primary mental health diagnosis. Our multi-disciplinary approach includes evidenced-based therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), medication management, dietary support, and more. In addition to the intensive individual and family treatment offered throughout the week, we also include structured recreational activities designed to positively impact self-confidence and cooperation. All skills learned at Discovery will serve them long after discharge as they reintegrate back to home and school life. Our educational program includes up to 20 hours of school each week to allow for continued academic momentum, sometimes even academic reintegration, while crucial lifesaving treatment is taking place.”
Due to the pandemic, Discovery Behavioral Health has initiated nationwide safety measures to protect patients and staff. Through its COVID Clean Commitment program, all patients are screened prior to arrival at their centers, and all rooms all sanitized at least once daily, along with other hygiene and sanitation protocols.
Discovery Behavioral Health President & CEO John Peloquin notes, “The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an increase in stress and anxiety nationwide, but young people can be particularly vulnerable. The World Health Organization recently reported that it is critical for people with mental health conditions to have continued access to treatment. It has always been our mission to increase access to quality behavioral healthcare and it is more important than ever make treatment options available during this national health emergency.”
To read more, CLICK HERE.
‘Not Just A Phase,’ a Free-To-The-Public Video from Discovery Behavioral Health, Offers Parents Advice on Their Adolescents’ Mental Health
LOS ANGELES, May 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., an expanding network of evidence-based mental health, substance abuse and eating disorder treatment centers, has created a short video providing parents with what could be life-saving advice.
Entitled “Not Just A Phase,” the video outlines adolescent behavior that might signal a developing or continuing mental health problem. Click here to access the video: https://discoverymood.com/mental-health-awareness-month/.
“Typical adolescent behaviors like mood swings, lack of or too much sleep, defiance, aggression and anxiety by themselves are normal. As we become adults, we tend to grow out of these. But when a child is exhibiting three or more of these behaviors simultaneously, they should not be dismissed as ‘just a phase,’ and an assessment by a qualified mental health professional is recommended,” says George Livengood, MS, LMFT, Vice President of Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program (www.discoverymood.com)
The “Not Just A Phase” video complements this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month message of “You Are Not Alone.” Mental illness affects one in five adults and 16. 5 percent of U.S. youth aged 6-17. However, only half of the youth in the U.S. receive treatment for their mental illness. (Source: National Alliance on Mental Illness)
“The one message we want parents to take away from the ‘Not Just A Phase’ video is don’t’ wait until it’s too late. Research shows that nearly 19 percent of high school students have had serious thoughts of suicide, and suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 in the U.S. If you think your child might be affected by mental illness, take action,” says Livengood.
To read more, CLICK HERE.
Discovery Behavioral Health Opens New Treatment Facilities in Crownsville
New Facilities Bring 19 Beds for Mental Health Treatment to Maryland
BALTIMORE, MD– Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., a leading nationwide provider of behavioral health services, announced the opening of a new facility today in Crownsville, MD, devoted exclusively to the treatment of mental health.
Discovery’s new facility will feature two residences for evidence-based treatment. The residences are part of the Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program, serving adults 18 years and older with mental health illnesses, including trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and bipolar disorder. Treatment programs are short term, generally running for 30-60 days and are gender-inclusive with an interactive community atmosphere where patients maintain a sense of independence, responsibility, and accountability.
“Mental health issues are becoming more common. There is a great need for programs like these that address behavioral health in a holistic and individualized way,” said John Peloquin, President and CEO of Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc.
A 2018 study published by the National Institute of Mental Health found that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults are living with a mental illness. Likewise, young adults aged 18–25 years old had the highest prevalence of mental illness compared to adults age 25 and older.
“These comprehensive programs have a low patient-to-staff ratio allowing patients to get the individual attention they need while still having opportunities to engage with others. The treatment plans incorporate the patient’s family and/or support system and their discharge planning begins on day one,” said Peloquin.
The Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program will provide a personalized treatment plan, where patients can recover in a real-life setting. Clinicians on site will help patients to engage in treatment methods such as trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, and more.
“Too often, behavioral health disorders are overlooked and unchecked with little resources available for those who desperately need them,” said Peloquin. “Discovery Behavioral Health is creating a safe haven for patients to find solace and take that difficult first step to embark on their recovery process that will eventually lead to a restored quality of life.”
Images of the Crownsville, MD facility can be found here.
About Discovery Behavioral Health
Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc. is a leading U.S. behavioral health network delivering accessible, evidence-based care within hospital and community-based centers. Treatment programs include substance use, eating disorder and mental health centers. With more than 100 treatment centers nationwide, Discovery’s levels of care include detoxification centers, residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs for preteens, adolescents, and adults. The company was established in 1997 and is headquartered in Orange County, California. For more information, visit: www.discoverybehavioralhealth.com
Discovery Behavioral Health Opens Two New Centers in Annandale and Fairfax, VA for Adolescent Mental Health Services
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 11, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., an expanding network of evidence-based mental health, substance use and eating disorder treatment centers, has opened two new mental health programs in Fairfax County in northern Virginia (about 15 miles west of Washington D.C.). The new treatment centers, branded Discovery Mood and Anxiety Programs, located in the cities of Annandale and Fairfax, will complement DBH’s existing residential treatment center in Fairfax Station with all three facilities providing treatment for a primary mental health diagnosis.
In both residential treatment programs, a maximum of eight patients are treated at any one time, offering gender-inclusive treatment for adolescents ages 10-18. At Discovery’s outpatient program, treatment is available for adults and adolescents separately in both the partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care.
“We specialize in evidence-based treatment such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) and other modalities to create a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan for each patient. Along with these evidenced based interventions, treatment programs include several experiential activities including creative art expression, music and meditation—to provide a well-rounded treatment experience,” says Amy Brown, President, Mental Health Division, DBH.
Patients will have a multi-disciplinary treatment team that will provide medication management and education by a board-certified psychiatrist, individual therapy, family therapy, and psycho-education groups for patients and their support system. Discovery values collaboration with families/support system and outpatient providers to ensure best practices and continuity of care. Discovery’s focus on reintegration to life with accessible coping skills, addresses how to better manage anxiety, practicing assertive and appropriate communication, time management and other issues associated with appropriate behavior socially and in an academic and/or work environment. Integrating the family and/or support systems into the overall treatment program is also a hallmark of Discovery’s therapeutic approach.
“The family and support system are considered integral members of the treatment team. We honor the family and support system as experts on their loved one while we provide care and clinical guidance throughout the recovery process. Once a patient is finished with treatment, they and their families or support system can access free weekly support groups, an extensive referral network and aftercare help,” says Brown.
During the pandemic, DBH has initiated special safety measures to protect patients, visitors and staff. Under its COVID Clean Commitment program, all patients are screened prior to arrival at their centers, and all rooms all sanitized at least once daily, among other hygiene and sanitation protocols.
Discovery Behavioral Health President & CEO John Peloquin notes, “The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the nation to experience an unprecedented level of stress and anxiety about the health of ourselves and our loved ones. Those already suffering from mental illness are facing even greater challenges. This is why we believe it is imperative to open our new mental health treatment centers providing greater access to care for all of us enduring the current national health emergency.”
To read the full article, CLICK HERE
Discovery Behavioral Health Announces ‘Coping With COVID,’ A Free Public Webcast On April 9th With Mental Health Experts
LOS ANGELES, April 2, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., a national leader in behavioral healthcare, will host a panel of renowned mental health experts in “Coping With COVID,” two free Zoom webcasts for anyone with questions on how to cope with the stress of the global pandemic, on Thursday, April 9th beginning at 2 pm ET. The panels will address questions related to mental wellness, eating disorders, alcohol and drug addiction, and trauma.
Comprising the panel are:
- Lori Gottlieb, psychotherapist and The New York Times best-selling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone; Jenni Schaefer, Meadows Behavioral Healthcare Senior Fellow and author of Life Without Ed: How One Woman Declared Independence from her Eating Disorder and How You Can Too and an upcoming book on finding a life worth living after trauma
- Comedian Dion Flynn, best known to the public for his signature impersonation of Barack Obama and his appearances on late-night network television including “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon,” and also founder of the Improv Recovery Workshops
- Karen Rubenstein, LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer of Cliffside Malibu, Discovery’s premier Southern California drug and alcohol rehabilitation center
- Deandra Christianson, MA, LCPC, CCMHC, CDWF President, Eating Disorder Division of Discovery Behavioral Health
- Event moderator is George Livengood, LMFT, Division Vice President, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program.
The April 9th online webinar is open to the public at 2 pm ET and healthcare professionals at 4 pm ET.
“Behavioral health issues do not take a break during times of crisis,” said Livengood, a licensed marriage and family therapist with experience in working with both adults and adolescents. “In fact, an event of this magnitude can trigger those who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma or addiction. As all of us socially distance ourselves, it’s a struggle for everyone to adjust to stay-at-home orders, and cope with the looming fear of illness, financial stress or job loss.”
“Discovery Behavioral Health already uses Zoom technology for its telehealth patient programs nationwide, so this public program was a natural next step in its mission of leading the way in behavioral health accessibility to the public and the healthcare professionals on the front lines battling this pandemic,” Livengood added.
Registration for these free events is available through Eventbrite under “Coping with COVID – Live ZOOM Webcast.” Participants can also sign up directly at these links Coping with COVID for the Public or Coping with COVID for Healthcare Professionals.
Discovery Behavioral Health Opens New Center in San Jacinto, CA For Adolescent Mental Health
LOS ANGELES, March 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, an expanding nationwide provider of behavioral health services, has opened a new facility in San Jacinto, located in Riverside County in the Inland Empire metro area of Southern California. Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program San Jacinto is a 19-bed, coed, adolescent (11-to-17-year old), mental health residential program with a substance use track.
The center, housed in a newly remodeled facility in a residential setting, is now accepting patients for enrollment.
There is a great need for mental health services for teenagers throughout California including Riverside County. In 2018, California ERs treated 84,584 young patients ages 13 to 21 who had a primary diagnosis involving mental health. That is up from 59,705 in 2012, a 42% increase, according to data provided by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development. By comparison, the number of ER encounters among that age group for all other diagnoses grew by just 4% over the same period.
The trend corresponds with another alarming development: a significant increase in suicides among teens and young adults. About 7.5 of every 100,000 young people ages 13 to 21 in California died by suicide in 2017, up from a rate of 4.9 per 100,000 in 2008, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nationwide, suicides in that age range rose from 7.2 to 11.3 per 100,000 from 2008 to 2017. In Riverside County, the youth suicide rate increased from 5.3 per 100,000 in 2007 to 7.7 in 2017.
“Youth treated for mental health in an emergency room are typically already in a mental health crisis, and frequently are considering suicide, have attempted suicide or have harmed themselves physically. The research is still out as to why mental illness is increasing so dramatically among today’s youth. In the meantime, our goal is to intervene with youth experiencing mental health issues before it reaches a crisis stage,” says George Livengood, vice president of Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program.
The mood and anxiety program offers personalized, evidence-based treatment for mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder trauma, self-harm and adoption or attachment issues. A defining feature of the program is the use of individual therapy as well as and “milieu” and “process” group therapies.
Milieu group allows patients to join with one another to develop and foster empathy for self and others, encourage one another, improve communication skills, acquire problem solving skills, and gain confidence in the acknowledgement and sharing of one’s story. During groups, patients define their world view and beliefs by using Cognitive Behavior Therapy techniques, while restructuring thought content impacting mood and behavior. They learn how to implement distress tolerance skills, communication skills, empathy, acceptance, and the ability to create an emotional and psychological safe zone for themselves.
Milieu groups provide additional opportunities to unleash right-brain creativity through artistic expression of visual art, music, movement, poetic writing, journals and dramatic interpretation.
Process Groups provide a deeper exploration of life issues with an opportunity for reflection to gain insight and awareness, and a vocal acknowledgement of shared experiences in a community of hope. This process is featured in Multifamily Process group as well as providing families with psychoeducational information, and skill development opportunities to support their loved while in treatment and beyond.
While the mental health and substance-use-disorder treatment programs are separate and distinct, both Discovery programs share a commitment to treat the underlying factors contributing to the disorders. As a result, patients completing the programs leave with a foundational resiliency, making them better equipped to navigate the challenges life presents outside of treatment.
Medication management is by board-certified psychiatrists, and includes individual sessions, medication education, psychopharmacology groups, and collaboration with families and outpatient providers.
Says John Peloquin, CEO and president, Discovery Behavioral Health, “Our first priority in deciding where to open a new treatment center is to determine if it fulfills a need for the community. In this case, we became aware that the Riverside County and Inland Empire area was underserved by evidence-based mental health services designed specifically for adolescents. Many of our youth today are experiencing unprecedented mental health distress, and we must respond by providing treatments that address their unique generational issues.”
For more information about Discovery Mood and Anxiety Program: https://discoverymood.com. For more information about Center for Discovery eating disorder treatment: https://centerfordiscovery.com
Discovery Behavioral Health Opens New Center in Austin For Adolescent and Adult Mental Health Services
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, a leading nationwide provider of behavioral health services, has opened a new center in Austin, TX. Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program will offer treatment for all major mental health disorders. The center, located in downtown Austin, is now accepting clients for enrollment in its Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program.
Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program is an intensive, outpatient program offering personalized, evidence-based, gender-inclusive and gender-specific treatment for mental health, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder trauma, self-harm and adoption or attachment issues. The center is dedicated exclusively to mental health issues for adults and adolescents.
“There’s a significant need in the greater Austin area as well as nationwide for programs that focus on mental health. Many programs combine individuals dealing with substance abuse with those dealing with purely mental health issues – we keep those populations completely separated because they require different treatment protocols,” says Amy Brown, M.A., President of Discovery Behavioral Health’s Mental Health Division.
According to the latest statistics available from the National Institutes of Health, about 1 in 5 Americans experience a mental illness with 1 in 25 experiencing a serious mental health disorder. For youth aged 6-17, 1 in 6 experience mental illness, and suicide has become the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-34.
In addition to mental health services, the center provides academic, experiential and family centered programs. “This is a comprehensive, well-rounded program that prepares adolescents for success in the classroom. The academic curriculum can be supplemented with complementary activities, including art, music and meditation. Families are carefully integrated throughout the recovery process, and provided support and clinical guidance,” says Alexia Mowry, Director of Clinical Outreach.
Medication management is by board-certified psychiatrists, and includes individual sessions, medication education, psychopharmacology groups, and collaboration with families and outpatient providers.
For more information about Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program: https://discoverymood.com
About Discovery Behavioral Health
Discovery Behavioral Health is an in-network, leading U.S. healthcare provider in the evidence-based treatment of substance abuse, mental health and eating disorders. It offers residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient care for teens and adults. The company was established in 1998 and is headquartered in Orange County, California. More: https://discoverybehavioralhealth.com
Discovery Mood and Anxiety Program Opens Treatment Program for Youth in Orlando
Residential and Outpatient Mental Health Services Designed Specifically for Adolescents and Young Adults
Facility launches in wake of new study that finds rates of depression and suicide for teens have soared over the past decade
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, a leading nationwide provider of mental health services, has opened a facility in Orlando, FL, devoted exclusively to the treatment of adolescents and young adults. The new center is now accepting clients for enrollment in its Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program, which includes residential treatment, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient care.
The program offers personalized, evidence-based, gender-inclusive and gender-specific treatment for mental health including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder trauma, self-harm, and adoption or attachment issues. The new facility is dedicated exclusively to mental issues impacting youth.
“There’s a great need in central Florida as well as nationwide for programs that focus on mental health among youth. Many programs combine individuals dealing with substance abuse with those dealing with purely mental health issues – we keep those population completely separated because they require different treatment protocols,” says Alexia Mowry, Director of Clinical Outreach.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology found that between 2009 and 2017, rates of depression rose by more than 60 percent among those ages 14 to 17, and 47 percent among those ages 12 to 13. Likewise, the number of children and teenagers who were seen in emergency rooms with suicidal thoughts or having attempted suicide doubled between 2007 and 2015.”
In addition to mental health services, the new facility provides academic, experiential and family centered programs. “This is a comprehensive, well-rounded program that prepares adolescents for success in the classroom. The academic curriculum can be supplemented with complementary activities, including art, music and meditation. Families are carefully integrated throughout the recovery process, and provided support and clinical guidance,” said Mowry.
Medication management is by board-certified psychiatrists, and includes individual sessions, medication education, psychopharmacology groups, and collaboration with families and outpatient providers.
“Research shows there’s been a generational shift and a pronounced increase in the U.S. among adolescents and youth who are experiencing serious psychological distress, major depression, and even suicidal thoughts. We’re answering their cry for help with mental health services designed specifically to address their unique needs,” said Amy C. Brown, M.A., President, Mental Health Division, Discovery Behavioral Health.
About Discovery Behavioral Health
Discovery Behavioral Health is an in-network, leading U.S. healthcare provider in the evidence-based treatment of substance abuse, mental health and eating disorders. It offers residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient care for teens and adults. The company was established in 1998 and is headquartered in Orange County, California.
Discovery Behavioral Health Announces Expansion of Mental Health Services
LOS ALAMITOS, Calif., April 2, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., with 77 treatment centers in 11 states, is pleased to announce the expansion of its mental health services. Known since 1997 for its expertise in the treatment of teens under the Center for Discovery brand, the newly named Discovery Mood and Anxiety Program will now offer services for young adults. Discovery Behavioral Health offers a full continuum of care in eating disorders, behavioral health and substance abuse treatment.
Company President and CEO John Peloquin states, “As the need for primary mental health services continues to rise for both adolescents and young adults, Discovery is committed to providing increased access to excellent clinical services. A recent study in The Journal of Abnormal Psychology revealed that rates of major depressive episodes have increased 52 percent among adolescents aged 12-17 and 63 percent among young adults aged 18-251. It is because of this demand, we are pleased to announce that we are now treating adults at the residential, partial hospital, and intensive outpatient level of care. We continue to work diligently to meet the demands of the communities we support and anticipate continued growth in the years ahead.”
Discovery Behavioral Health, a national leader in evidence-based clinical treatment, is committed to providing the ultimate inpatient access, through a strategic mix of geographic locations and tiered pricing that makes life changing care affordable and accessible for the largest possible client base. Discovery continues to expand its footprint nationwide with treatment centers specializing in behavioral health, eating disorders, substance abuse and dual diagnosis. For more information on Discovery Behavioral Health visit, www.discoverybh.com.
1Twenge, Cooper, Joiner, Duffy, & Binau, Age, Period, and Cohort Trends in Mood Disorder indicators and Suicide-Related Outcomes in a Nationally Representative Dataset, 2005-2017, American Psychological Association, Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 2019