An important new resource for families with kids, teens and young adults up to age 25 has been launched by California’s Department of Health Care Services as part of the state’s CalHOPE program. This is a resource for youth and families that should be added to a provider’s tool kit in assisting patients and their loved ones in dealing with mental health and substance use concerns.
The program offers web- and app-based platforms that provide a number of free services including one-on-one support with a live wellness coach, a library of multimedia resources, wellness exercises and peer communities moderated by trained behavioral health professionals.
Two distinct programs are available—both are free, no insurance required and no referrals needed. Bilingual coach and live translation in 19 languages are available.
- BrightLife Kids is for parents or caregivers for kids up to age 12
It is accessable at:
https://www.hellobrightline.com/brightlifekids/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=calhopewebsite
It is also available for download on IOS devices in the Apple App Store (and will be available for Android devices in mid-2024).
- Soluna is geared to provide support for teens through young adulthood (ages 13-25).
It is accessible at: https://solunaapp.com/
It is also available for download for both IOS and Android devices in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
SERVICES OFFERED
- Free Coaching: Live one-on-one coaching sessions with a trained and qualified behavioral health wellness coach delivered through in-app chat or video appointments. Telephone coaching will also be available in all Medi-Cal threshold languages.
- Educational Content: Age-tailored educational articles, videos, podcasts, and stories.
- Assessments and Tools: Stress-management tools and clinically validated assessments to understand and monitor behavioral health over time.
- Care Navigation Services: A searchable directory and live care navigation support to connect users to their local behavioral health resources, including connecting users with their health plan, school-based services, or community-based organizations that can provide clinical care options and care coordination services.
- Peer Communities: Moderated forums and programs to connect users with other youth or caregivers.
- Crisis and Safety Protocols: Crisis and emergency safety resources for platform users experiencing a mental health crisis or who require immediate assistance (e.g., 988).
SmartCare Behavioral Healthcare Consultations Services continues to provide on-demand telephone and televideo Child/Adolescent Psychiatric Consultation Services and our Family Support Services provides guidance and support for parents, guardians and older adolescents seeking mental health supports locally in San Diego County.
MD consultation # 858 880-6405
Family Support Program # 858 956-5900.
References:
https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/formsandpubs/publications/oc/Documents/2024/24-03-CYBHI-1-16-24.pdf