Mental Health Awareness Month takes new meaning for TriCity Family Services during pandemic
TriCity Family Services, a private, nonprofit community mental health center serving Central and Southern Kane County, invites the public to help raise awareness for mental health during the month of May, which is nationally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month.
For more than 50 years, TriCity Family Services has become synonymous with mental health advocacy, providing counseling for all ages and income levels.
The agency's mission is providing quality mental health services that are accessible and affordable to all.
By offering a sliding fee scale and scholarships based on need, TriCity Family Services ensures that no one is denied access to care. The organization specializes in family-centered counseling, which includes its Family-Based Treatment for Eating Disorders Program.
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, TriCity Family Services provided nearly 32,000 hours of service to more than 3,600 clients, and that demand for counseling is increasing.
According to a survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 63% of 18-24-year olds, a demographic that TriCity Family Services specializes in serving, reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, with 25% reporting increased substance use to deal with stress and 25% saying they had seriously considered suicide. The survey further states that even when the COVID-19 crisis is over, at least 10% of these young adults will have long-lasting effects from mental health issues they are currently managing.
Executive Director Laura Poss explained that access to mental care services has never been more crucial since the onset of the pandemic.
"The children, adolescents, adults, and seniors we treat at our agency are reporting increased isolation, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma, among other stressors," said Poss said. "The services that we provide are vital to the communities we serve, particularly now."
Recently, TriCity Family Services was invited by Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) to contribute support for a bipartisan legislative effort to deliver mental health resources to health care professionals and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Stopping the Mental Health Pandemic Act directs the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to award funding to states, municipalities, community health centers, and other health care providers to address mental and behavioral health challenges caused the coronavirus pandemic.
Historically the month of May signifies Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when TriCity Family Services increases recognition for the cause. This year, as a result of the pandemic, the organization will be offering three unique opportunities for the community to promote the importance of practicing self-care, help stop the stigma often associated with mental illness, and raise awareness for its mission. All initiatives are open to the public.
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This month, join in Green Means Go Virtual 5K by running, jogging or walking (treadmills count), wherever and whenever, to show support for mental health. All ages are welcome. Cost is $20 or $10 for children and teens. Registration includes goody bag and free custom race tee, while supplies last. Finisher medals for overall male/female, plus first-place male/female according to age breakdowns. Last year's event featured 12 participating states. Visit greenmeansgo.itsyourrace.com.
• Partnering with downtown Geneva's Scentcerely Yours in May, TriCity Family Services created a spring candle to promote mental health awareness. "Live Lime To The Fullest" features a citrus blend of agave, sea salt and orchid, and lime margarita. Great options for teacher appreciation gifts, Mother's Day, or just to pamper yourself. Candles are $24 and a percentage of all candle sales will be donated back to TriCity Family Services. Visit scentcerely-yours.com/product/tricity-family-services-fundraiser.
• On Friday, May 14, support TriCity Family Services by participating in the Virtual Trivia Night. With a green-themed list of categories to challenge the savviest trivia player, groups of six or fewer are encouraged to sign up, choose a fun team name, purchase raffle tickets, and prepare for a fun Friday night. Cost is $20 per person. Visit www.tricityfamilyservices.org/special-events/.
To learn more about mental health awareness, TriCity Family Services, or to schedule an appointment, visit www.tricityfamilyservices.org, or call (630) 232-1070.