The Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services (Commission) of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services was created in 1973 as part of the Executive Organization Act. Its creation, powers and duties are set forth, in part, in N.C.G.S. § 143B-147. Its mission is to promote excellence in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programs for persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities and substance use disorders in North Carolina.

The Commission has the authority to adopt, amend and repeal rules to be used in the implementation of state and local mental health, developmental disability and substance use service programs. The Commission also has the authority to modify specific storage, security, transaction limits and record keeping requirements that apply to particular pseudoephedrine products.

Adults over the age of 60 with mental health and/or substance use disorders are faced with challenges to live successfully in the community. They have complex issues disrupting their ability to interact with others resulting in undesirable behaviors. Older adults are supported by agencies, facilities and organizations in the community; however, many are unable to maintain these supports due to the staff lack of an understanding of mental health and/or substance use disorders.

Therefore, it is essential for the staff to have an understanding of mental health and substance use issues, possess the skills to prevent and diffuse crisis situations and have the ability and confidence to appropriately support older adults.  Primary care physicians, emergency department staff, and EMS responders frequently provide services to older adults due to physical complaints or injuries.