A mental health board is a local governing body tasked with addressing the mental health needs of the community it serves. These boards operate at the township, county, or regional level, depending on the area, and work to fund and support programs that provide mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and developmental disability resources.

How Do Mental Health Boards Work?
Mental health boards are typically funded through local property taxes, grants, or state allocations. These funds are distributed to community organizations and initiatives that meet the area’s unique mental health needs. The board members—often a mix of appointed and elected individuals—assess local gaps in services, prioritize funding, and oversee the implementation of programs to ensure effectiveness.

What Can a Mental Health Board Accomplish?
The impact of a mental health board can be profound. For example, the Wheeling Township Mental Health Board in Illinois played a key role in developing a transitional housing center, providing residents with a safe place to rebuild stability and access essential support services. Mental health boards can fund similar initiatives, such as crisis intervention programs, school-based counseling, substance abuse treatment centers, or community education campaigns.

Why Are Mental Health Boards Important?
Mental health boards serve as a bridge between local government and community needs, ensuring resources are allocated where they’re most effective. By funding critical services, they help address the mental health crisis at a grassroots level, fostering healthier, more resilient communities.

For communities looking to expand mental health services, advocating for a well-funded and active mental health board is a crucial step toward lasting change.

Blog