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Sangamon County Mental Health Commission Identifies Gaps, Solutions and Recommendations for the Sangamon County Board (overview video)
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After months of research, the Sangamon County Mental Health Commission has recommended that the Sangamon County Board ask voters on the March 17, 2026 ballot whether to establish a countywide Mental Health Board — funded by a modest increase in the county sales tax (shoppers would pay 5 cents more on a $10 purchase).
This video features powerful interviews with community members, mental-health providers, and Commission representatives who share why this investment matters — and how it could transform lives right here in Sangamon County. A Mental Health Board could 1) Expand access to mental-health and substance use treatment 2) Support youth, seniors, families, and individuals facing daily challenges 3) Improve community well-being and economic stability 4) And implement other recommendations recently published in the commission's report (insert link). More than 90 Illinois communities already have a Mental Health Board improving outcomes for their residents. Sangamon County does not— yet. Research shows that every $1 invested in scaling up treatment for depression and anxiety leads to a return of $4 in better health and ability to work.
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What is a 708 Mental Health Board?
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| More than 90 Illinois communities have a locally funded Mental Health Board — a mechanism allowed by state law to expand access to mental health and substance-use services. Sangamon County does not — yet. This video explains what a Mental Health Board is, how it operates, and how it could address significant care gaps in Sangamon County. To learn more, read the recent Sangamon County Mental Health Commission report. The report recommends that the County Board place a question on the March 17, 2026 ballot asking voters whether to establish a countywide Mental Health Board funded by a one-half (1/2) percent county sales tax increase. That would mean 5 cents more on a $10 purchase, with funds dedicated to local mental health services. |
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What is a co-responder model?
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| One of the top recommendations of the Sangamon County Mental Health Commission is to implement a countywide co-responder model. This approach pairs a trained mental health professional with first responders, ensuring that individuals experiencing a mental health crisis receive immediate and appropriate support. Communities already using co-responder teams are seeing results. For example, the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board reports a 60 percent decrease in emergency room visits related to mental health crises, due to individuals being connected with more effective community-based services. This video provides an overview of how a co-responder model works and why it could benefit Sangamon County. You can learn more by reading the recently published Sangamon County Mental Health Commission report. |
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Mental Health Care Access: Challenges & Opportunities
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| Access to mental health services remains a significant challenge throughout Sangamon County — in both rural communities and urban neighborhoods. While more than 90 Illinois communities have established locally funded Mental Health Boards to expand mental health and substance-use support, Sangamon County does not — yet. This video highlights some of the current gaps in care, what’s at stake for residents, and the opportunity to create a stronger, more coordinated behavioral health system for all. For a deeper look at the data and recommendations, explore the recently published Sangamon County Mental Health Commission report. |
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Mental Health Care Gaps in Sangamon County
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| A recent study shows that more than half of Sangamon County residents report experiencing mental illness within their household. According to a survey commissioned by the Sangamon County Mental Health Commission, while some residents say they are able to access services, many do not know where to go — and others report feeling uncomfortable seeking help at all. More than 90 Illinois communities have established locally funded Mental Health Boards to strengthen access to mental health and substance-use services. Sangamon County has not — yet. This video outlines the Commission’s recommendation to create a countywide Mental Health Board and explains how a dedicated local funding stream could help close current care gaps. To learn more, read the full Sangamon County Mental Health Commission report from the Sangamon County Mental Health Commission. |