Press Releases

Press Releases

Read all the latest news and information from Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services. View the archive below for past releases.

Publications and Press Releases

Pine Grove and the Mississippi Nurses’ Association are Partnering to Present: Coping with COVID, A Mental Health Education and Awareness Program for Nurses

May 4, 2020

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses, and the Mississippi Nurses’ Association (MNA), the professional association for all registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses in Mississippi, are partnering to present an educational webinar series named, Coping with COVID. These weekly hour long webinars are taking place on Wednesdays with two sessions per day, the first at 12:00 noon and the second at 4:00 PM, to accommodate nurses with a variety of schedules. For webinar registration information, please visit www.msnurses.org.

These free, educational webinars are providing Mississippi’s nurses with convenient access to important mental health care information from Pine Grove’s professionals regarding self-care strategies and stress management techniques. Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “Pine Grove is proud to have a long standing relationship with the Mississippi Nurses’ Association and during this unprecedented pandemic, our state’s nurses are experiencing enormous pressure on the job as front line responders and working in new and unfamiliar health care environments in response to patient care needs. These work place stresses combined with other life changes at home are having a direct impact on Mississippi nurses. Pine Grove cares deeply about helping nurses equip themselves with the necessary tools to help them continue to provide the highest quality patient care.”

The webinars started on April 22nd, and are scheduled for April 29th and May 6th, 2020. All of the webinars included in this six part series are being recorded, and they are available on www.msnurses.org for Mississippi nurses to access. Teresa Malone, Executive Director of the Mississippi Nurses’ Association said, “We applaud all of our Mississippi nurses for their dedication and valor every day. The Mississippi Nurses’ Association and Pine Grove understand the impact COVID-19 has had on our registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses as these heroes continue to work despite anxiety and uncertainty they may feel during this time. We know this webinar series is serving a need our nurses have for relevant and useful mental health care resources.” The Mississippi Nurses’ Association successfully represents, advocates, and lobbies for nurses across all specialties and roles through a number of activities, events, programs, forums, workshops, and collaborations. The MNA has stood side by side with Mississippi’s nurses for more than 108 years.

Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers an Intensive Outpatient substance abuse healing program for adults and a program specifically for those who are age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for 36 years.

Pine Grove is providing a free COVID-19 Stress and Anxiety Helpline for Mississippi Residents. The number is 1-888-574-HOPE (4673).

April 20, 2020

Hattiesburg, Mississippi: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses, is working to help Mississippi’s citizens during this pandemic by providing a free community support line related to COVID-19 Stress and Anxiety. This emotional support line is intended for adults ages 18 years old and older, and the number to call is 1-888-574-HOPE (4673). The support line hours of operation begin statewide on Monday, April 20th, 2020, and the line will be open and ready to accept calls daily from 8:00 AM to midnight, 12:00 AM.

Pine Grove understands the changes in daily life due to the COVID-19 pandemic may seem overwhelming at times and mental health support for our state is needed. This support line is staffed by Pine Grove’s caring and qualified professionals, who want to help our fellow Mississippians during this pandemic. Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “For 36 years Pine Grove has provided the highest quality behavioral health care and addiction treatment for the citizens of Mississippi and beyond. We are proud to be located in Mississippi and we care deeply about helping our state during this unprecedented pandemic. The upheaval in everyone’s daily lives because of COVID-19 is stressful. Mississippi citizens are well-known for their resilience in the face of any challenge; we want to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to continue moving forward.”

This emotional support line is intended to provide stress management tools for people, who are experiencing increased levels of worry due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of this line is to listen, and provide resources and self-care strategies for our citizens. Pine Grove encourages people to call this support line if they are experiencing any source of stress and anxiety due to life changes regarding the pandemic. We understand that health and safety are of the utmost importance, which is why Pine Grove also expanded its programs in response to the pandemic to include telehealth services for children, adolescents and adults. Outpatient tele-therapy sessions are available and Pine Grove expanded its telehealth services to include its drug treatment Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for men and women. All Pine Grove Evaluation Center services are available via telehealth as well. Patients interested in these services may also call 1-888-574-HOPE (4673), and visit www.pinegrovetreatment.com.

Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers an Intensive Outpatient substance abuse healing program for adults, and a program specifically for those who are age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for 36 years.

PINE GROVE’S 35TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: “WHERE THERE’S HOPE,” EMBRACING THE FUTURE WITH ELIZABETH SMART

February 7, 2019

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is proud to announce their 35th Anniversary Celebration with a very special event titled, Where There’s Hope, Embracing the Future with Elizabeth Smart. This significant celebratory event is Tuesday, February 19th, 2019 at the Thad Cochran Center’s third floor ballrooms on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi. This event is a seated luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m., and features a keynote address by Elizabeth Smart, one of America’s most well-known child abduction survivors and a highly respected advocate for national child safety legislation. A press opportunity for members of the media to interview Elizabeth Smart is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on February 19th at the Thad Cochran Center.

Elizabeth Smart said, “I’m so excited and honored to be speaking at Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services’ 35th Anniversary. We all have our challenges in life, and so often too many of us find ourselves alone. Having support and a network of friends to rely upon is essential in triumphing over those challenges. Pine Grove is truly a beacon of hope not only locally but nationally and a role model for others to follow.” Pine Grove is looking forward to welcoming Elizabeth Smart to Hattiesburg and her inspiring message about the importance of finding strength, and embracing the future. According to Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, “Elizabeth Smart’s mission to help other people overcome trauma and reclaim their lives is very much aligned with Pine Grove’s 35 years of providing hope and healing to children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with behavioral health care and addiction issues.” Following Elizabeth Smart’s presentation, she will participate in a book signing of her two publications, My Story and Where There’s Hope.

This special event is a fundraiser for Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services’ Spiritual Grounds project, and is proudly sponsored by The Mapp Family Foundation, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi and Midtown Market. All contributions to Pine Grove’s 35th Anniversary Celebration, Where There’s Hope, Embracing the Future with Elizabeth Smart, are stewarded through the Forrest General Healthcare Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s Spiritual Grounds project is an initiative of the Foundation and consists of several therapeutic elements including a meditative labyrinth, fire circle, garden and the Paul McMullan Circle of Healing Plaza. Pine Grove’s development plans, with the support of generous contributors, include the addition of a bell tower and chapel to offer patients, their family members and alumni a dedicated place for prayer, fellowship and acceptance.

Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty treatment programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for 35 years.

PINE GROVE INTRODUCES DR. GARY ROBERSON AS THEIR NEW MEDICAL DIRECTOR

November 1, 2018

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is proud to welcome esteemed Psychiatrist, Dr. Gary Roberson as their Medical Director. Dr. Roberson was recently featured on the cover of Top 100 Magazine’s summer 2018 issue, which highlighted the top 100 Doctor’s in America. At Pine Grove, Dr. Roberson leads the clinical and operational decisions pertaining to the organization’s medical staff. He said, “When I was given the opportunity to lead the premier behavioral health care and addiction treatment hospital in the Southeastern United States, it was an opportunity I could not refuse.”

Dr. Roberson completed his medical education including his Psychiatry Residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS. Dr. Roberson earned a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in evidencebased medicine, a Masters Status (MSc) in Experimental Therapeutics (Clinical Pharmacology), and a Diploma in Theological Studies from the University of Oxford, England. Additionally, Dr. Roberson completed a Rotary International Graduate Fellowship at the University of York, England. Dr. Roberson is a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties and a lifetime member of the Oxford University Science Society. Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “With the addition of Dr. Gary Roberson to our medical team, Pine Grove is well positioned to further our tradition of being a strong leader in the treatment of behavioral health care and addiction issues.”

Pine Grove also recently welcomed the addition of two other noted physicians to their medical staff, Dr. Charles Richardson and Dr. Siddeeqah Bilal. Dr. Richardson completed his medical education and Psychiatry Residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, and his fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at Emory University, in Atlanta, GA. At Pine Grove, Dr. Richardson specializes in the care of adult patients receiving inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment. Dr. Siddeeqah Bilal earned her Masters of Public Health degree in Epidemiology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI, and completed her medical education and psychiatry residency at The University of Mississippi Medical Center. Additionally, Dr. Bilal was a Maternal and Child Health Research Fellow through the Association of Schools of Public Health. Dr. Bilal treats adult patients within Pine Grove’s Outpatient Services Department including the treatment of women with prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum mental health care issues.

Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for nearly 35 years.

PINE GROVE INTRODUCES A FEW GOOD MEN: CELEBRATING MEN IN RECOVERY

June 5, 2018

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is proud to announce the addition of A Few Good Men: Celebrating Men in Recovery to its Next Step treatment curriculum. Pine Grove has a long tradition of treating men with chemical addiction at its Next Step program. Recently, Pine Grove further enhanced its treatment at Next Step by specifically focusing on the care of young men ages 18-39 years old. Because Next Step solely focuses on healing emerging adult men with chemical addiction, Pine Grove’s clinical team expanded its treatment group for younger patients within Next Step and called this initiative, A FEW GOOD MEN: Celebrating Men in Recovery.

A FEW GOOD MEN: Celebrating Men in Recovery focuses on the issues specific to young men in treatment with a different topic being addressed weekly with daily group therapy sessions. Dr. Leah Claire Bennett, Pine Grove’s Clinical Operations Director said, “A FEW GOOD MEN: Celebrating Men in Recovery works to challenge male stereotypes that can foster control, dominance and the suppression of emotions, to a more open view of masculinity that allows men to express themselves openly, show courage and love deeply.” Pine Grove’s Next Step patients discuss daily who they want to be in recovery and learn to celebrate this transformation. The weekly topics addressed within Next Step’s A FEW GOOD MEN: Celebrating Men in Recovery program include Masculinity, Male Role Models, Male Privilege, Power and Control, Men as Husbands and Partners, Fatherhood and Male Sexuality, to name a few of the twelve total topics.

Pine Grove’s Next Step program also treats dual diagnosis, trauma and mood disorders. Next Step includes residential level addiction treatment as well as a step down partial hospitalization program for patients based on the clinical decisions of the treatment team. For more information about Pine Grove’s Next Step treatment program for young men and the A FEW GOOD MEN: Celebrating Men in Recovery initiative please visit www.pinegrovetreatment.com/nextstep.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PLEASE JOIN PINE GROVE AND THE FORREST GENERAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION FOR THE DEDICATION OF PINE GROVE’S MEDITATIVE LABYRINTH AND FIRE CIRCLE

May 21, 2018

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is proud to announce on May 24th, 2018 at 10:30 a.m., the dedication of their Meditative Labyrinth and Fire Circle. The dedication will take place at Pine Grove’s Spiritual Grounds, located at 2255 Broadway Drive, in Hattiesburg, MS. Following the dedication, guests will enjoy a reception at Pine Grove’s outdoor pavilion.

Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “Our Spiritual Grounds are a place of contemplation and self-discovery for our patients. The additions of the labyrinth and fire circle were made possible through the generous donation of an anonymous donor. We are truly grateful and appreciative because these elements are further enhancing the healing care Pine Grove provides.”

Labyrinth’s help patients focus on a defined goal, like recovery, by offering a set path with a clear destination. Pine Grove’s labyrinth is based on the design of the historically significant labyrinth at the Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France, and offers patients a relaxing place to concentrate on their personal path to recovery. The fire circle element provides Pine Grove’s patients with a means to spiritually discard of past transgressions and make healthy resolutions for the future. Both the labyrinth and fire circle at Pine Grove were designed by Thomas Eaves and Sally Hughes with the Landarc Consulting Group, Inc., in Hattiesburg, MS. The contractor for Pine Grove’s Spiritual Grounds project is the J.S. Cromwell Construction Company, located in Gulfport, MS, and the sub-contractor for the labyrinth is Design Pavers of Perkinston, MS. Pine Grove plans to further develop their Spiritual Grounds, which is a project of the Forrest General Healthcare Foundation, with the addition of a chapel, bell tower and water feature.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PINE GROVE BEHAVIORAL HEATH & ADDICTION SERVICES ANNOUNCES THEIR 2018 ANNUAL 5K CARE RUN/WALK

April 19, 2018

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is proud to announce their 2018 5K Care Run/Walk on April 28th in Downtown Hattiesburg’s Town Square Park. Registration for the event begins at 7 a.m., with the race starting at 8 a.m. Online registration is available by visiting www.pinegrovetreatment.com/carerun. It costs $25.00 to register and this fee includes a race T-shirt, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the construction of new playground equipment for Pine Grove’s Child and Adolescent Unit, which treats young people ages 5-17 years old. Debbie Sanford, Pine Grove’s Administrator said, “We are looking forward to hosting this year’s 5K Care Run/Walk, and appreciate the opportunity it provides our community to learn more about the positive impact healthy outdoor activities like running and walking have on mental health.”

This is the third year Pine Grove is hosting this event in honor of National Mental Health Month, which kicks off annually in May, and this year’s theme by Mental Health America is Fitness#4Mind4Body, and focuses on the relationship between physical health and mental health. Prizes will be awarded for top finishers in the race’s youth and adult categories and top walkers will also be recognized. The 5K Care Run/Walk also includes a drawing for some unique door prizes including specially engraved landscaping rocks. Pine Grove is proud to present this event in partnership with the Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Association. Andrea Saffle, Executive Director of the Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Association said, “Races like Pine Grove’s 5K Care Run/Walk are great because they attract people from all over our region and it’s an opportunity to show off Hattiesburg’s beautiful downtown and historic neighborhoods, while supporting a worthwhile cause.” Additionally, Pine Grove is proud to partner with area businesses that are supporting the 5K Care Run/Walk including Glory Bound Gyro Co., who is providing delicious race snacks from their menu for participants and drinks are being provided courtesy of Hattiesburg Coca-Cola.

PINE GROVE AND SOUTHERN MISS ATHLETICS PRESENTS: REBOUND – THE CHRIS HERREN STORY: RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT OPIOID ADDICTION IN YOUNG ADULTS

January 10, 2018

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is proud to present in partnership with Southern Miss Athletics, Rebound – The Chris Herren Story: Raising Awareness about Opioid Addiction in Young Adults, on Tuesday, January 30th, 2018, at 6 p.m. at the Thad Cochran Center on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi. This presentation is free and open to the community.

Chris Herren is a basketball legend from Fall River, Massachusetts, who dreamed of playing for his hometown team – the Boston Celtics. An All-American, Herren broke scoring records, was recruited by top colleges and he was featured in Sports Illustrated. Herren achieved his dream of playing in the NBA when he was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 1999 and was traded to the Boston Celtics after his rookie season, but lost it all due to substance abuse. Alcohol and drug free since August 1st, 2008, Herren has re-focused his life to put his sobriety and family above all else. Herren said, “I look forward to sharing my story at The University of Southern Mississippi. It is my hope that my journey and presentation may make a positive impact on the life of just one person in the audience.”

Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services explained, “Our goal in presenting Chris Herren’s story is to help our community understand addiction and the devastating impact it has on the addict, and their loved ones. We also want our audience to be better equipped to make healthy decisions and recognize the warning signs of addiction, so they may seek help for themselves or a peer.” Pine Grove invites young people, their parents, coaches, educators and health care professionals to this inspiring and significant event. Following the presentation, Pine Grove’s treatment professionals will be available to help audience members with specific questions they may have about addiction.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PINE GROVE PRESENTS, SUICIDE AND TEENS: DECODING THE SECRET LIFE OF TEENAGERS – HELPING PARENTS UNDERSTAND THE RISKS

August 15, 2017

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is proud to present on Thursday, September 7th at 6 p.m. at Forrest General Hospital’s Tree Rooms, Suicide and Teens: Decoding the Secret Life of Teenagers – Helping Parents Understand the Risks.

Pine Grove is bringing together an experienced panel of professionals including a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, psychologist, therapists and a clinical social worker to help parents recognize the warning signs of suicide in young people and respond quickly and appropriately. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in American teenagers and by recognizing the signs and intervening, we can help our youth find hope and healing. Parents of Pine Belt area teenagers are invited to attend the event, which is free of charge. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP and ask the panel a question in advance by visiting www.pinegrovetreatment.com. Questions will be anonymous.

Pine Grove understands how vital it is for parents to be informed about this issue so they may identify resources to assist with suicide prevention and response. Debbie Sanford, Administrator of Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “Our goal for this solutions driven panel is to help parents better understand teen suicide, the contributing factors and how they can best support their children and their classmates.” The topics the panel will address include: bullying behaviors and the incidence of suicidal behaviors in bullying victims, secrets and lying, why teenagers are secretive about their suicidal thoughts, the role of social media as it relates to teenage suicidality and helping teenagers develop their emotional intelligence and its role in suicide prevention. Additionally, resources for parents will be provided.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 and over. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PINE GROVE PRESENTS, A SUICIDE SURVIVED: THE KEVIN HINES STORY – RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT SUICIDE AND TEENAGERS

January 9, 2017

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses, is proud to present on Thursday, February 9th at 6 p.m. at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Thad Cochran Center, A Suicide Survived: The Kevin Hines Story – Raising Awareness about Suicide and Teenagers. Kevin Hines is a mental health advocate, award-winning speaker, bestselling author and documentary filmmaker who reaches audiences worldwide with his story of survival and will to live. Two years after Hines was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 19 years old, he attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. He is one of only thirty-four people to survive the fall, and the only person to have regained full physical mobility. Additionally, he is the only Golden Gate Bridge jump survivor who is actively spreading the message of living mentally healthy.

Pine Grove understands how vital it is for family members, friends and educators to recognize the warning signs of suicide in young people. It is due to this commitment that Pine Grove is bringing Kevin Hines’s message of hope to the community. Debbie Sanford, Forrest General Hospital’s Chief Officer of Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “Our goal in presenting Kevin Hines’s story is to raise awareness about suicide in young people and help their parents, peers and educators better understand this issue and how they can help.”

Additionally, Forrest General Hospital’s Spirit Girls program is participating in the event. The Spirit Girls are an initiative of the hospital’s Spirit of Women program and includes young women in the seventh through twelfth grades from Forrest General’s 19-county service area. The program helps girls take an active role in making healthy choices. Breanne Gaubert, Forrest General’s Spirit Girl and Sweetea Coordinator said, “Suicide is more prevalent in our community than we’d like to admit and our teens need to know that they aren’t alone in their feelings. It’s important for the Spirit Girls to learn from Kevin’s story so they may feel hope for the future and be a light to others.” Pine Grove invites teenagers, parents, young adults, educators and other members of the community to this educational and moving event. Please visit www.pinegrovetreatment.com/events for additional details. Following Kevin Hines’s presentation, he will be available for a book signing of his memoir Cracked Not Broken, Surviving and Thriving After A Suicide Attempt.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 and over. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professionals treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PINE GROVE LAUNCHES A NEW ADDICTION MEDICINE TRAINING PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER

September 27, 2016

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses is partnering with The University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Psychiatry Program, to provide the department’s fourth year residents with Addiction Medicine training.

The program launched in September of 2016 and the month long training rotation gives residents the opportunity to enhance their ability to assess and treat patients with addictions. Dr. Chaz Richardson of Hattiesburg, who is familiar with Pine Grove’s reputation as a leader in the behavioral health care and addiction field, is the first of six residents to participate in the partnership this year. He said, “I plan to take in as much as possible.” After completing his residency training, Dr. Richardson wants to practice in Mississippi where there is a disparity between the numbers of practicing Psychiatrists compared to the patient population in need of mental health care. It’s a sentiment echoed by Debbie Sanford, Forrest General Hospital’s Chief Behavioral Health & Addiction Services Officer. Sanford said, “Pine Grove recognizes that within Mississippi and nationally there is a severe shortage of Psychiatrists, and we are committed to provide addiction medicine training to prepare the next generation of Psychiatrists and help close this gap, while ensuring patients receive the highest quality behavioral health care.”

During their Pine Grove rotation, residents will receive training at the organization’s Next Step program, which treats men with chemical addictions; the Women’s Center, where women with substance use issues and co-occurring eating disorders are treated; Legacy, one of a few programs nationally that treats adults age 55 plus with chemical dependency, and Pine Grove’s Family Program. The Family Program is part of the treatment curriculum for patients receiving residential care at Pine Grove. Additionally, the program includes a rotation with Pine Grove’s Intensive Outpatient Program for adults with drug and alcohol issues, along with the Professional Enhancement Program for individuals with behavioral problems, interpersonal difficulties and addiction disorders.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital, located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 and over. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a gender focused program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PINE GROVE INTRODUCES THEIR INAUGURAL 2016 CARE WALK IN HONOR OF MAY’S MENTAL HEALTH MONTH

May 5, 2016

Hattiesburg, MS: Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses, is recognizing May’s Mental Health Month with the organization’s first ever Care Walk, scheduled for May 21st, 2016. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the program and walk starts at 10 a.m. The purpose of the two mile walk is to raise awareness about mental health conditions, and support Pine Grove’s Giving Back initiative. For this event, Pine Grove is also partnering with NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s Pine Belt affiliate, to educate the community about important mental health issues. According to NAMI, one in five Americans will be affected by a mental health condition in their lifetime.

The walk takes place on Pine Grove’s beautiful walking trail, located on the organization’s main campus at 2255 Broadway Drive in Hattiesburg. The event also includes a fun activity for children. The cost to register is $20.00 and this fee includes the walk’s T-shirt, which may be picked up during the event. Participants are encouraged to register by visiting www.pinegrovetreatment.com/carewalk. Supporters are asked to arrive at the organization’s outdoor pavilion, located on the main campus, to sign in, pick up their T-shirt and enjoy the activities. Debbie Sanford, Forrest General Hospital’s Chief Officer of Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “We are excited about our inaugural Care Walk and believe this event provides an important community service, enables the public an opportunity to experience Pine Grove’s beautiful campus and learn more about the mental health care we provide for children, adolescents and adults from the Pine Belt and across the country.”

All proceeds from the registration fee benefit Pine Grove Giving Back, a charitable initiative dedicated to supporting the campuses’ Spiritual Grounds. Pine Grove plans to further develop their Spiritual Grounds with the addition of a meditative labyrinth, chapel and other features designed to improve the mental health and advance the recovery of Pine Grove’s patients, alumni and their family members. All contributions to Pine Grove Giving Back are stewarded through the Forrest General Healthcare Foundation, a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization.

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital, located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs treat gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 and over. Other Pine Grove specialty programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a gender focused program for patients with sexual addiction. Inpatient Services including an Adult Psychiatric Unit, along with a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, and Outpatient Services are other components. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided nationally and internationally recognized health care for over 30 years.

PINE GROVE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH & ADDICTION SERVICES IS PROUD TO BE THE FIRST TREATMENT CENTER TO OFFER STRUCTURED FAMILY RECOVERY™

September 8, 2015

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is proud to be the first treatment center in the country to offer our patients Debra Jay’s Structured Family Recovery™ initiative. Structured Family Recovery™ empowers family members to have a positive impact on loved ones, who are recovering from their addictions. Due to this focus on the importance of recovery it is fitting that Pine Grove is launching Structured Family Recovery™ in conjunction with September’s National Recovery Month, which is held annually to increase public awareness about the power of recovery.

Structured Family Recovery™ is a specialized program that outlines how family members impact a patient’s recovery after treatment. Developed by noted author and Pine Grove Consultant, Debra Jay, Structured Family Recovery™ creates a defined family support system to provide empathy and accountability while a patient completes a residential treatment program at Pine Grove. Jay said, “In early recovery, a time when a united front is crucial, families can make the difference between success and failure.”

The residential treatment programs offering Structured Family Recovery™ include Pine Grove’s Next Step program for men and the Women’s Center. These programs provide hope and healing to patients, who are battling substance abuse addictions. Structured Family Recovery™ is also offered to family members and patients with Pine Grove’s Professional Enhancement Program, known as PEP, which treats professionals with inter-personal difficulties. Pine Grove’s Family and Alumni Programs are also educating family members about Structured Family Recovery™ and how they may participate in the program.

As one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses, Pine Grove is known for providing its patients with innovative addiction treatment. Structured Family Recovery™ is an extension of Pine Grove’s commitment to help patients and their families harness the joys of recovery. Debbie Sanford, RN, MS, MBA, Forrest General Hospital’s Chief Officer of Behavioral Health & Addiction Services said, “Pine Grove has long recognized a patient’s entire family is impacted by addiction and Structured Family Recovery™ is an important enhancement to Pine Grove’s patient and family centered services.”

Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services is an extension of Forrest General Hospital. Pine Grove’s world renowned programs focus on treating gender specific chemical addiction including a specialized track for co-occurring eating disorders. Additionally, Pine Grove offers a substance abuse healing program for adults age 55 plus. Other Pine Grove programs include a dedicated professional’s treatment curriculum and a comprehensive evaluation center. Pine Grove also features a program for patients with sexual and intimacy disorder issues. Pine Grove was established in 1984 and has provided the highest quality health care for over 30 years.