The economic crisis is impacting the delivery of mental health services throughout the country. The state of Ohio has been affected by cuts in state funding for mental health services.

The Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Richland County has seen an increase in the number of people seeking services for drugs and alcohol due in part to the downtown in the economy.

Mental health board executive director Joe Trolian said providing services to those in need is becoming even more of a challenge with the state budget cuts. Trolian said the board is working with every resource available and with other agencies to provide services.

The board met Tuesday afternoon to discuss the budget constraints and plans to place a levy on the November General Election Ballot. Trolian said the board must decide if it will seek a renewal or replacement levy. He said the board must also consider how the levy will affect the community.