Mental illness affects people of all ages and backgrounds and by addressing the symptoms that may signify a problem can lead to a successful treatment.

The Greater Naples Chamber hosted Scott Burgess, CEO of the David Lawrence Centers of Behavioral Health, during Wake Up Naples on March 2. The event, sponsored by Gulfshore Playhouse, provided Burgess with the opportunity to discuss the impact mental health has in Collier County, and what business leaders can do to remain proactively aware. 

“We are blessed in this community that wants to work together, that understands the benefits of collected impact," said Burgess. "No organization, no individual can do everything by themselves, so we need to work in partnership where we can leverage everybody’s strength,."

Burgess provided attendees updates on David Lawrence’s central receiving center, legislative changes impacting the mental and behavioral health sector and why mental health is an important issue affecting our community.

He explained that when mental illness remains untreated, the symptoms can worsen and negatively impact a person's well-being. Burgess said it often takes about 10 years from first signs of an issue to the first treatment.

Dedicated in providing mental/behavioral health solutions through in-patient and out-patient treatment services for children and adults enforces a professional, safe space where multiple comprehensive resource programs are available for those struggling with psychological, emotional or substance use challenges.

“We are a service provider that’s committed to everyone in our community,” Burgess said. “We provide services for the entire age spectrum, and many people struggle with co-occuring challenges, so being a 24/7/365 crisis service has allowed us to meet the needs of any person at any time.”

The David Lawrence Centers has provided lifesaving and life-changing behavioral healthcare for more than 50 years through increased accessibility of treatment, education and prevention for those and their families affected by mental health.