AGENCY TESTIMONY
Assistant Commissioner Jamie Neckles testifies on Introduction 1103 regarding mental health outreach after traumatic events
0:16:17
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3 min
Jamie Neckles, Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Mental Health at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, testifies on Introduction 1103, which proposes legislation for mental health outreach following violent and traumatic events. She expresses concerns about the legislation and recommends a person-centered, trauma-informed approach that offers choices to individuals.
- Neckles highlights existing mental health services, including 988, mobile crisis teams, and youth mental health services in schools.
- She emphasizes the importance of tailoring responses to individual needs rather than implementing a one-size-fits-all approach.
- The testimony recommends promoting NYC 988 as a flexible, confidential resource for those experiencing distress after traumatic events.
Jamie Neckles
0:16:17
Good morning, Chair Lee and members of the committee.
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I'm Jamie Neckels, assistant commissioner for the Bureau of Mental Health at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
0:16:28
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today on introduction 1103 of 2024.
0:16:35
Proposed legislation regarding outreach following violent and traumatic events.
0:16:41
Introduction 1103 was introduced on November 13th.
0:16:44
We've reviewed it but have had little time to discuss with our agency partners.
0:16:48
That said, we have some concerns regarding the legislation.
0:16:53
We understand that violent and traumatic events take a serious emotional and physical toll on individuals and communities.
0:17:01
The health department supports a wide array of mental health services, 988, mobile crisis teams, youth mental health services in schools, teen space, and much more.
0:17:12
The health department is constantly working behind the scenes to better understand community needs and tailor our response system.
0:17:20
Generally, we have concerns about implementing a one size fits all response to traumatic events.
0:17:27
Each person and situation is unique.
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We recommend an approach that offers choice and control to the person who experienced the trauma.
0:17:39
This could be done through a 988 brochure or palm card that encourages New Yorkers to call, text, or chat NYC 988 counselors or peer support specialists if they need someone to talk to following a traumatic event.
0:17:54
NYC 988 is available via talk, text, and chat any time of day, any day of the year.
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988 counselors and peers are trained to listen, provide emotional support, and help to identify the next best step for each unique situation.
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For many people, confidential telephonic support feels safe and is a convenient way to cope with their distress.
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They can talk, text, or chat as long as they want, and reach back out as needed whenever they want.
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In discussion with a 988 counselor, the person can be connected to the full array of mental health services available in our city.
0:18:37
Some people may benefit from in person de escalation by a mobile crisis team that can respond within a few hours citywide.
0:18:46
Still, others may prefer a referral to a support group or mental health clinic in their neighborhood.
0:18:53
Every situation is unique.
0:18:55
People have different preferences, so we provide options.
0:18:59
The health department is deeply committed to supporting the mental health of New Yorkers.
0:19:03
We recommend a person centered, trauma informed approach to mental health care that offers people choices.
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The most effective way to do that is to encourage people to contact a 9 88 counselor or peer support specialist then when they want to and how they want to.
0:19:18
In conversation with NYC 988, they can share their story, be heard, learn coping skills, and be connected to the services that meet their needs and preferences.
0:19:29
Thank you.
