Since 1963, we have been assisting people who are experiencing mental health conditions.

Through our services, people increase their confidence and sense of worthiness. They gain a more positive outlook, higher quality of life and connection to the community. Contact us if you would like to learn more about our services.

228-864-6274
info@msmentalhealth.org
4803 Harrison Circle, Gulfport, MS 39507

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About Our Organization

Welcome to the Mental Health
Association of South Mississippi

Mental Health Association of South Mississippi has been working to support and empower people who experience mental health challenges since 1963.

In response to the presence of stress and mental illness, Mental Health Association of South MS provides resources and support services for those seeking mental wellness and recovery within our community.  This includes mental health, intellectual disability disorder, substance abuse and homelessness issues. Each year the organization serves over 3,900 meals, provides assistance to 200 people experiencing homelessness, provides supportive housing for 15 homeless individuals and provides educational opportunities to several hundred people.  Four Certified Peer Support Specialists work for the agency; these individuals have lived experience with mental health challenges and can help others in their recovery.

See Ways We Help

Our Programs

Homeless Outreach

Evidence shows that most people with significant and complex disabilities can live successfully in integrated community settings with access to affordable housing and services suitable to their needs and preferences.

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Drop-In Center

The Opal Smith Drop In Center is a day program for adults with mental illness.  This includes social, educational, and work skills.  Instead of being alone, people fill their day with making friends and gaining confidence.

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Mental Health Screenings

Taking screening tests is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.

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Supportive Housing

The supportive housing program that we administer for HUD provides housing for individuals who are chronically homeless who also have a mental illness. 

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Peer Support

Mental Health Association of South MS believes in the movement across the nation toward recovery based efforts.  It is important to talk to people about what their goals are in life and what they wish to achieve.

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WRAP

The Mental Health Association of South Mississippi hosts sessions where the general public can learn wellness tools and stress management.

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Respite

The Gulf Coast Respite House offers a unique retreat experience, blending the comfort of an Airbnb with a twist providing opportunities for rejuvenation and personal growth.

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Impact Stories

Our programs are about helping others at a low point in their life.

For much of his life, James has battled the weight of depression and anxiety. These internal struggles often left him feeling like he had to keep moving—never quite able to settle or find peace. After a difficult divorce in 2010, he found himself living between Florida, Mississippi, and Texas, searching for something more stable, something that felt like home.

Despite the emotional challenges he faced, he always spoke highly of the support he received from his family. During a period living in Texas, he recognized a deep need for mental health support and enrolled in a 13-month residential drug and alcohol recovery program—even though he wasn’t struggling with substance use. He hoped the structure and resources might provide the mental clarity and support he so desperately needed. After six weeks, he realized the program wasn’t meeting his needs, and he reached out to his sister in Mississippi. She didn’t hesitate. she came and brought him back home.
He lived with his sister and mother for a few years, continuing to search for the help he needed. In April 2024, he made a life-changing decision. He asked his sister to drop him off at Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, determined to seek out mental health services and rebuild his life, even if it meant experiencing homelessness.
That determination led him to connect with mental health at Coastal Family Health Center immediately and then our PATH program in October 2024, where he began working with case manager Bobbie Singletary. Together, they built a strong and trusting relationship. Bobbie helped him navigate housing applications and helped assist with other necessities he may have needed while being unhoused. During this time, he also utilized our other program at the Opal Smith Drop-In Center, which provided a safe space and essential support.
Bobbie and Liz (our other Outreach case manager) worked diligently to find the right housing option that would meet all his needs and when the time came, the community came together in an incredible way. A local donor, Jeff O’Keefe, provided a couch. Community Action Agency assisted with deposits. Open Doors furnished a bed. These generous contributions helped transform an apartment into a true home.
Through it all, James has shown remarkable strength and resilience. His gratitude for those who have supported him is evident in every interaction. Watching his journey unfold—his growing confidence, his renewed hope—has been nothing short of inspiring.
This story is a testament to what can happen when compassionate support, community collaboration, and individual determination come together. We are honored to have walked alongside him on this journey.
More About Our Impact