Groundbreaking for Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center in St. Clairsville: A New Hope for Eastern Ohio
In a significant step towards enhancing mental health services in Eastern Ohio, ground was broken last week for a new behavioral health urgent care center in St. Clairsville. The event drew attention from local leaders and state officials, including Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who emphasized the importance of accessible mental health care for communities in Belmont, Harrison, and Monroe counties.
A Collaborative Effort
The new facility is a collaborative initiative involving Coleman Health Services, the Mental Health and Recovery Board of Belmont, Harrison, and Monroe counties, and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. This partnership aims to address the pressing need for mental health resources in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coleman Health Services President and CEO Hattie Tracy expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its multifaceted approach to mental health care. “This is an amazing project that will add a crisis stabilization unit to the community while also including a 24/7 crisis assessment walk-in center and a place for our mobile crisis teams,” Tracy stated. This comprehensive model is designed to provide immediate support for individuals experiencing mental health crises, ensuring that help is available when it is needed most.
Meeting a Critical Need
The behavioral health urgent care center will be the first of its kind in the three counties, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s mental health landscape. Governor DeWine’s administration has committed $90 million to bolster local behavioral health crisis response services, underscoring the state’s dedication to improving mental health care access.
Tracy elaborated on the services that will be offered at the center, which include treatment for substance use disorders, bipolar depressive disorders, trauma and stress-related issues, and anxiety disorders. Additionally, the facility will provide support in obtaining benefits, housing, employment, and other recovery resources. This holistic approach aims to address not only the immediate mental health needs of individuals but also the broader social determinants that impact their well-being.
A Historic Moment
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor DeWine reflected on the historical significance of the day. He recalled the Community Mental Health Act signed by President John F. Kennedy 60 years ago, which promised access to mental health care for every citizen. DeWine acknowledged that the nation has fallen short of this promise but expressed pride in the progress made in Ohio and beyond.
“This is a historic day because we are addressing the long wait times that individuals often face when seeking mental health care,” DeWine remarked. He noted that many people experience delays of up to two months before receiving the help they need, a situation that can have dire consequences for individuals and their families.
A Step Forward for Eastern Ohio
The governor also recognized the support of local legislators, including State Representatives Don Jones and Ron Ferguson, and State Senator Brian Chavez, who have championed the project. “For families in Eastern Ohio, this is a good day, this is a step forward,” DeWine stated. He emphasized that the establishment of the center is part of a broader initiative to create similar facilities across the state, aiming to remove barriers to mental health treatment.
DeWine articulated a vision for Ohio where every resident can achieve their full potential, free from the constraints of untreated mental health issues and addiction. “This building is about hope,” he declared, reinforcing the idea that access to mental health care is essential for individuals to thrive.
Conclusion
The groundbreaking of the behavioral health urgent care center in St. Clairsville represents a beacon of hope for the communities of Belmont, Harrison, and Monroe counties. With a commitment to providing comprehensive mental health services and addressing the root causes of mental health crises, this facility is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of many. As Ohio continues to invest in mental health resources, the promise of accessible care becomes a reality, paving the way for a healthier, more resilient community.