Joliet District 204 Urges Families to Prioritize Mental Health

As the winter break approaches, Joliet Township High School District 204 is emphasizing the importance of mental health for students and families. The district has released information about various mental health resources available during the holiday season, which can often bring about unexpected emotions and challenges.

Students will be off school from December 22, 2024 to January 6, 2025, with classes resuming on January 7. To support families during this time, the district is sharing access to mental health services that can help address a range of issues, including relationship challenges, grief, and stress.

Accessible Mental Health Services

One primary resource is Thriveworks, which offers free mental health services to students, families, and staff in the district. Appointments can be scheduled for in-person or virtual care within three to five days after a request. Thriveworks collaborates with the top 4% of mental health providers, ensuring quality assistance for various mental health concerns. To schedule an appointment, individuals can call 815-724-3506 or visit the Thriveworks website. It is important to note that students on Medicaid will no longer be eligible for Thriveworks services due to changes in grant funding.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Will-Grundy is another valuable resource. For local mental health services, families can reach NAMI at 815-409-7917 or visit the Will-Grundy NAMI website.

Families facing acute mental health crises can turn to the Will County Health Department’s Mobile Crisis Response (MCR). This program provides mental health screening and assessment for children, adolescents, and adults before any hospital admission for inpatient psychiatric care. The MCR program operates 24/7 and offers services every day of the year. To access emergency screening, call the CARES line at 800-345-9049.

Additional Support Options

Rosecrance Behavioral Health offers a continuum of care for adolescents, including residential treatment, outpatient services, and prevention education. Their approach addresses both mental health and substance use disorders while involving family members in the healing process. Interested individuals can contact Rosecrance at 866-784-3021 for more information.

For youths aged 11 to 17, Aunt Martha’s Comprehensive Community-Based Youth Services (CCBYS) provides a crisis response and intervention program. The CCBYS team works to ensure the safety of youth and their families, addressing challenges such as risk of homelessness or involvement with the juvenile justice system. Families can call 708-679-8100 for 24/7 support or visit the CCBYS website for additional details.

Trinity Services, in partnership with The Hope Institute for Children & Families, offers crisis intervention via the Illinois Crisis Prevention Network. Their direct crisis line is 815-320-7300. Additionally, individuals aged 18 and older can access “The Living Room,” a safe and calming environment designed to support those in crisis.

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, individuals are urged to call 911 or contact the National Suicide Hotline by calling or texting 988. The mental health resources provided in the district are not emergency services, but they aim to support families in need during the holiday season.

In conclusion, Joliet Township High School District 204 encourages families to prioritize their mental health during the winter break. The district wishes all students and families a safe and healthy holiday season, reminding them that support is available when needed.