Essential Learning is a resource-rich website for residents of San Benito County seeking information on behavioral health. Funded with revenues from Proposition 63, a 2004 ballot measure aimed at funding mental health services throughout the state, Essential Learning addresses common behavioral health issues including anxiety disorders, depression and substance abuse.
“A lot of people want information on these issues, but fear seeking help because of the stigma attached to mental health problems,” said Linda Yoshikawa, a manager in the San Benito County Behavioral Health Department. “We want people to use this as a free resource where they can go to get information and find local people here to help them.”
According to Yoshikawa the county serves roughly 1,700 residents per year who seek services for behavioral health. The department serves all ages and socio-economic levels, often reaching out by going to places where they may be needed.
“We go to the senior center, where some people may need help with depression,” Yoshikawa said. “We also run the Esperanza Center downtown in an effort to engage people who may not want to come to a traditional clinic.”
The site includes a Calendar of Events listing services and meetings, as well as a research section for residents who want to read more about a particular condition.
The site can be found at: http://cas.essentiallearning.com/sbcbh/