New Urgent Care Center for Mental Health in Huntsville

A new psychiatric urgent care center has opened in Huntsville, marking the first of its

kind in Alabama and one of the few nationwide.

Led by psychiatrists Dr. Scaria Kumar and psychiatric physician assistants Julia Kluge

and Priya Patel, the facility at 219 Longwood Drive.

Southwest aims to provide fast mental health support for those in crisis.

Mental health needs have surged since the pandemic, with the World Health Organization

noting a 25% global rise in anxiety and depression.

In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has tracked sharp increases

in drug overdoses and suicides since 2020.

Current options fall short, as emergency room visits often mean hours-long weights that

don't fit busy lives, while specialists' appointments can drag on.

For months, risking jobs, marriages, and finances.

This walking clinic handles issues like suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, addiction support,

and urgent medication needs, with options to call ahead, or book online for added convenience.

Looking ahead, the team plans to extend hours into evenings and weekends, and their scouting

spots for more locations to meet the growing demand.

Across North Alabama, from your city, powered by AI, this is Birmingham News Today.

I'm Corey with The Story.