New Urgent Mental Health Care Center Opens in Chicago
A Vital Service for Young People
In Chicago, a significant void is being filled with the launch of SHFT Behavioral Health, the city’s first urgent care center dedicated to young individuals facing mental health crises. As reported by WLS, the center aims to provide immediate support for those aged 10 to 30 who require urgent care without the overwhelming experience of visiting a hospital emergency room.
The Mission Behind SHFT
The mission of SHFT Behavioral Health stands apart from typical mental health services. Co-founder and chief clinical officer Holley Brandchaft-White emphasizes the urgent need for a specialized space where youth can seek help. “It can feel so overwhelming and daunting to think about reaching out for help,” she remarks, highlighting the challenges families face when trying to find appropriate care. Many often resort to emergency rooms, not because it’s suitable, but because they have no other options.
Urgent and Routine Care Services
SHFT is designed to cater to both urgent mental health needs and routine care, creating a balanced approach to mental wellness. The service seeks to destigmatize mental health issues, fostering an environment where young people and their families can feel comfortable seeking help. Families will no longer need to navigate complex systems alone; immediate, accessible support is now available.
Addressing a Growing Crisis
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by alarming statistics from the Illinois Department of Public Health, which indicates that nearly 50% of all youth hospitalizations in the state from 2018 to 2022 were due to mental health and substance use disorders. This staggering figure highlights the desperate need for targeted services specifically designed for young audiences.
The Clinician’s Perspective
Olivia Buckley, a clinician at SHFT, shares her gratitude for being part of a service that stands in the gap for those in need. Her experience in navigating care with families equips her with the empathy and understanding necessary to provide vital support. “We know everyone goes through crises, and we want to normalize it,” Buckley stresses. Her perspective reinforces the notion that experiencing mental health challenges is a common human experience, and seeking help is a courageous step.
A Community-Centered Approach
As the services at SHFT unfold, community leaders are hopeful for the center’s potential to expand its reach. 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly highlights the critical nature of these services within Chicago’s neighborhoods. He emphasizes the difficulties many face in accessing regular mental health care, underscoring the importance of creating more hubs like SHFT to ensure that essential support is available throughout the city.
Location and Accessibility
Opening its doors on Monday at 730 N. Franklin St., No. 510 in River North, SHFT Behavioral Health represents a beacon of hope for urgent mental health care in Chicago. The center is strategically located to facilitate easy access for young individuals and their families in need of immediate assistance.
With the establishment of SHFT Behavioral Health, Chicago takes a crucial step towards filling the gap in mental health care for its youth, offering immediate support in a compassionate, specialized environment.