Prevention and Early Intervention Programs

MHSA Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) funds are intended to help prevent mental illnesses from becoming severe and disabling. This includes intervening early in the onset of symptoms; reducing risks related to mental illness; increasing recognition of signs of mental illness; reducing stigma and discrimination related to mental illness; preventing suicide; and connecting individuals to appropriate services. A minimum of 51% of PEI funds are required to be dedicated to youth and transition age youth (0-25 years old). PEI emphasizes improving timely access to services for underserved populations and incorporating robust data collection methods to measure quality and outcomes of services. Programs incorporate strategies to reduce negative outcomes of untreated mental illness: suicide; incarcerations; school failure or dropout; unemployment; prolonged suffering; homelessness; and removal of children from their homes. PEI funds are intended to help prevent mental illnesses from becoming severe and disabling. This includes:

  • Prevention: Reduce risk factors and build protective factors associated with mental illness
  • Early Intervention: Promote recovery and functional outcomes early in emergence of mental illness
  • Outreach: Increase recognition of and response to early signs of mental illness  
  • Access and Linkage to Treatment for those with Serious Mental Illness
  • Reduce Stigma and Discrimination related to mental illness  
  • Efforts and Strategies related to Suicide Prevention