The Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services has had its current name for more than 20 years. During that time, many states have updated their agencies’ names to reflect current values and perceptions and to address feelings about certain language and biases.

Also, during that time, many, many people, including legislators and advocates, have complained about the Department’s name being unwieldy and far too long.  Thus, the time for giving this department a new, more current name has arrived.

The Department's partners statewide and the general public are invited to review the options below and respond with a preferred choice by August 15, 2008.  As you review the options below, please keep in mind the goals of the name change:

-- To shorten the current name and acronym,

-- To consistently use positive terms related to the impact of the Department's services, rather than listing disabilities or conditions addressed by those services, and

-- To use terms that are more reflective of the Department's values and mission statement and more inclusive of current programs (versus exclusive 'silo' terms) and any future additions to the services the Department provides and the populations served.

These choices are listed in no preferential order, only alphabetically:

-- Department of Behavioral and Developmental Services (DBDS)

-- Department of Behavioral Health and Supportive Services (DBHSS)

-- Department of Behavioral and Supportive Services (DBSS)

-- Department of Supportive and Recovery Services (DSRS)

Please review the options above and respond with a preferred choice or an alternative by August 15, 2008 to ruthanne.walker@co.dmhmrsas.virginia.gov, with the phrase "Name Change Survey Response" in the subject line.