Author Archives: Behavioral Health and Recovery Services

National Recovery Month – a Celebration of Recovery

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National Recovery Month, better known as “Recovery Happens Month” in San Mateo County, is a national observance held every September since 1989. Now in its 33rd year, Recovery Month educates Americans on the fact that treatment can enable those with mental health and substance use challenges to live healthy and rewarding lives. Since 2014, Voices of Recovery, in collaboration with BHRS, has joined in this celebration to promote awareness, positivity, and encouragement for those who are in or seeking recovery, and that with strength, support, and hope, recovery is possible.

Special events held in San Mateo County throughout September celebrate the gains made by individuals living in recovery. This year’s events will be held in person, with COVID prevention precautions in place, including the popular BBQ Picnic and Resource Fair happening on September 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Coyote Point. 

Check out the full list of events here.  We hope to see you there!

BHRS Director’s Update – August 2022

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See the latest issue of the Director’s Update from BHRS interim director, Lisa Mancini.  Topics include:

  • San Mateo County – One of the Best Communities for Mental Health
  • National 988 Number Launched for Suicide and Mental Health CrisesThe
  • BHRS Director Transition
  • Contractors’ Association Spotlight – Voices of Recovery 
  • CalAIM Corner:  Documentation Reform

Past issues can be found here.

David Lewis Award Nominations – Due August 16

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award ribbon

The San Mateo County Behavioral Health Commission is seeking nominees for its annual David Lewis Award – Recognizing Outstanding Contributions towards Recovery.

This honor is made to the individual or organization that has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of people with substance abuse disorders and the San Mateo County community.

Recognition is given for public education or advocacy around alcohol and other drug abuse issues or to address stigma; services to persons with substance abuse disorders; creation of new and innovative programs or community support activities; recognition of fundraising for substance abuse treatment activities or long-term financial support to substance abuse programs; working for new legislation; compassionate treatment of persons with alcohol and other drug disorders.

Download the nomination form.

BHRS Director’s Update – July 2022

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Please see the latest issue of the Director’s Update from Scott Gilman.  Topics include:

  • Celebrating Mental Health Month
  • Cariño Project Expands Services for Coastside Farmworkers and Families
  • Behavioral Health Commission (renamed)
  • Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT)
  • Contractors’ Association Spotlight – StarVista
  • CalAIM Corner:  No Wrong Door

Past issues can be found here.

Pride Center’s 5 Year Anniversary Celebration

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Please join us on Thursday, June 30 from 6 pm – 8 pm PST, as we virtually celebrate the San Mateo County Pride Center’s 5- year anniversary milestone event. We will hear from county leaders, community partners, some of our founding team members, and YOU about the impact the Pride Center has made. The celebration will be emceed by none other than Jesus U Bettawork and feature performances by the ever-popular Drag King troupe the Rebel Kings!

Take Control of Your Finances

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This program is a mainly do-it-yourself opportunity for anyone with an email, phone and internet access, to improve their personal finance knowledge and skills. While anyone can sign up and participate, only income-qualified San Mateo County residents are eligible to earn cash incentives (up to $1,100.00) for work completed within the program.

In a Crisis or Need Support?

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The @StarVistaSMC Crisis Center provides suicide intervention services and programs for San Mateo County residents, including a 24-hour crisis hotline, mobile youth crisis response team, online and text teen crisis support, and educational presentations to the community and schools.

StarVista’s Crisis Center’s website www.sanmateocrisis.org provides a dedicated space to share program services, updates, resources, and more.


StarVista’s Teen Crisis Services consist of an online teen chat and teen text line, which are free, peer-to-peer services that are accessible from http://www.sanmatecrisis.org or by texting 650-747-6463.


StarVista’s 24/7 Crisis Hotline 650-579-0350 offers a safe and confidential place for people to explore feelings, concerns, vent frustrations, clarify problems, and get referrals. Our crisis hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for crisis intervention.

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