THE ARTICLE, “Floyd not impacted by NW Ga. Regional closing,” (Rome News-Tribune, Feb. 28), caught my eye. Being opposed to the closure of Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital, I dug into the article looking to find some positive news about mental health services in Floyd County.

I found positive news, but it was concerning Floyd Behavioral Health Center and not Floyd County as a whole. After reading more, I surmised that the primary explanation why Floyd Behavioral Health has experienced flat growth of mental health admissions is likely due to them accepting only voluntary patients.

Opening with little fanfare late last spring, the 16-bed Highland Rivers Crisis Stabilization Unit has been filled most of the time. They admit involuntary and voluntary patients. I also hear that Floyd County jail has seen a significant increase in inmates with mental health issues. Please don’t assume that the closure of NWGRH left no void in Floyd County. It will take years before we see the community-based services operating to 100 percent effectiveness.

Those of you who wish to comment on the effectiveness of mental health services in our area and the impact of the closure of NWGRH will have the opportunity to do so today, from 3-6 pm at the North Georgia Goodwill Career Center, 154 Hicks Dr., Rome. 

A subcommittee of the Georgia Mental Health Planning and Advisory Council is seeking feedback from individuals with mental health issues, their families, advocates, and providers.

Drop in and make your voice heard.