NASHVILLE – The winter season temporarily brings about cold temperatures, dreary days and feelings of prolonged sadness for many Tennesseans. These feelings may be caused by a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which tends to occur more often in winter months, especially January and February.

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities, in partnership with the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts, has been awarded $196,742 for a Mental Health Criminal Justice Collaboration Grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance. 

NASHVILLE – In an effort to reduce the stigma of mental illness and substance abuse disorders, the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities will be hosting a second Operation Immersion training November 5 and 6, 2009 in Smyrna, Tenn. The department has partnered with the Tennessee National Guard and the Tennessee Veterans Task Force to present this one-and-a-half day training, which focuses on military culture and issues unique to Tennessee National Guard Service members who have served in combat and experienced one or multiple deployments and their families.

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities has received a $9 million grant from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to implement a coordinated system of care for youth in Knox County over the next six years, called the K-Town Youth Empowerment Network. Effective September 30, 2009, the grant is a result of the partnership between the department, Tennessee Voices for Children, the Helen Ross McNabb Center, and the Centerstone Research Institute. 

NASHVILLE –With unemployment on the rise, many Tennesseans find themselves feeling edgy, worried, and sad. It is common to experience extra stress during tough financial times, but when these negative feelings persist and prevent you from doing daily activities and interacting with others, it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

NASHVILLE – In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 4 - 10, 2009), the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities is encouraging Tennesseans to increase their awareness of mental health and illness.  

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities announces the opening of four medically-monitored crisis detoxification units in East and West Tennessee. The units are operating out of community mental health and alcohol and drug agencies in Chattanooga, Jackson, Knoxville and Memphis. A fifth unit will open later this year in Nashville to serve Middle Tennessee.