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Mental Health Pros On Diffusing Jax's "Ticking Time Bomb"

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Jacksonville is being called "a ticking time bomb"by local mental health professionals due to the lack of funding and support for mental health programs and patients.The move comes as local advocates warn something needs to change here in Jacksonville before another tragedy strikes.

The city ranks near the bottom nationally when it comes to funding and delivery of mental health services.

In fact, the two biggest providers of mental health support are the Duval County Jail and the local public schools.

Next year, local think tank JCCI is tackling the issue of mental health on the First Coast, asking just how dire is the situation, and what can be done to change it?

Denise Marzullo, CEO of Mental Health America of Northeast Florida, and Laura Lane, vice president at JCCI (Jacksonville Community Council Inc.) joined Melissa Ross to discuss the issue of mental health and take listener calls.
 

You can follow Melissa Ross on Twitter @MelissainJax

Melissa Ross joined WJCT in 2009 with 20 years of experience in broadcasting, including stints in Cincinnati, Chicago, Orlando and Jacksonville. During her career as a television and radio news anchor and reporter, Melissa has won four regional Emmys for news and feature reporting.