Joliet District 204 Urges Families to Prioritize Mental Health This Winter

Joliet Township High School District 204 is encouraging families to focus on mental health during the upcoming winter break, which runs from December 22, 2024 to January 6, 2025. In a recent news release, the district highlighted the potential for emotional challenges during the holiday season and shared various mental health resources available to students and families while school is not in session.

To assist with mental health needs, students and families can access free services through Thriveworks, which offers both in-person and online care. Appointments are typically available within three to five days following a request. Thriveworks is known for collaborating with the top 4% of mental health providers, who specialize in issues such as relationship challenges, mental illness, grief, and stress. Families interested in Thriveworks services can call 815-724-3506 or visit their website for more information.

It is important to note that due to grant funding limitations, students enrolled in Medicaid will no longer be eligible for Thriveworks services.

Another key resource is the NAMI Will-Grundy National Alliance on Mental Illness, which provides local mental health services. Individuals can reach NAMI by calling 815-409-7917 or visiting their website.

For those in need of immediate assistance, the Will County Health Department & Community Health Center operates a Mobile Crisis Response (MCR) program. The MCR initiative focuses on mental health screening for children, adolescents, and adults before any potential hospitalization for psychiatric care. The program emphasizes keeping individuals in the least restrictive environments, offering culturally sensitive services that support families in familiar settings. The MCR operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, accepting all referrals on a no-decline basis. The CARES line can be reached at 800-345-9049.

In addition, Rosecrance Behavioral Health provides a range of programs for adolescents, including residential treatment and outpatient care. Their services address both mental health and substance use disorders, incorporating family involvement whenever possible. Interested individuals can reach the intake line at 866-784-3021.

The Aunt Martha’s Comprehensive Community-Based Youth Services (CCBYS) program offers a 24-hour crisis response for youth aged 11 to 17. CCBYS assists families in crisis, ensuring safety and developing supportive plans. They can be contacted at 708-679-8100 for assistance with youth in various crisis situations, including those at risk of homelessness or involvement in the juvenile justice system.

For individuals aged 18 and older, Trinity Services partners with The Hope Institute for Children & Families to provide crisis intervention through the Illinois Crisis Prevention Network. Their direct crisis line is 815-320-7300. Trinity Services also operates “The Living Room,” a calming environment intended to de-escalate mental health crises without resorting to emergency rooms. Guests receive assessments and can speak with Recovery Support Specialists who have lived experience with mental health challenges.

The mental health resources listed are not intended for life-threatening emergencies. In such cases, individuals should call 911 or contact the National Suicide Hotline at 988.

The district emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help and encourages families to utilize the available resources. A commitment to mental health can lead to a more supportive and understanding environment during the holiday season. As they prepare for the break, Joliet District 204 wishes all students and families a safe and healthy winter holiday.