Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Welfare Recipients

Mental health needs of welfare recipients often are overlooked by state welfare programs. In a "best practices" project, we examined programs designed by state and local welfare offices and workforce development systems to address the mental health needs of this population. Information was obtained during site visits conducted in two sites, one urban and one rural, in each of four states. During the visits, research staff interviewed program administrators, case managers, specialized workers, metal health service providers, and other involved in service delivery. In the final report, we examined the key choices in designing and providing mental health services, including (1) the types of services provided, (2) eligibility, (3) range of service needs addressed, (4) strategies for identifying clients with mental health conditions, (5) integration of mental health and employment services, (6) agencies administering and providing mental health services, and (7) payment for mental health services. Key implementation issues are identified and discussed.

In another study, we evaluated the experience in Oregon, where welfare case workers helped their clients overcome the challenges of drug and alcohol addiction while continuing to emphasize timely employment.

Our researchers also have issued two guides for program administrators working with these clients:

"Addressing Substance Abuse Problems Among TANF Recipients: A Guide for Program Administrators" provides information to help program administrators and staff understand substance abuse problems, identify welfare recipients with these problems, understand the treatment system, and integrate treatment into a work-focused welfare program.

"Addressing Mental Health Problems Among TANF Recipients: A Guide for Program Administrators" examines mental health conditions among welfare recipients to 1) provide an overview of common conditions and the mental health system, 2) discuss the types and prevalence of certain disorders, and 3) offer strategies for linking recipients with treatment and designing employment services to move them into work.

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