DMH is strategizing with state agencies, community mental health providers, and higher education partners to address the Behavioral Health Workforce Crisis.

According to research by the Behavioral Health and Economics Network, Illinois has only 13.8 behavioral health care professionals for every 10,000 residents which translates to over 4.8 million Illinois residents living in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area. This shortage has real effects on Illinoisans. It threatens access to care, increases hospital stays, and contributes to an overuse of the legal system.