DuPage sets example on mental health care

I am writing to express my support for the upcoming debut of DuPage County’s Crisis Recovery Center (CRC) in the summer of 2025. This initiative reflects our community’s growing commitment to addressing mental health and substance use crises that have long required more focused attention.

The CRC’s ability to provide 24/7 care, short-term crisis intervention, outpatient support and medication-assisted treatment offers a much-needed alternative to hospital emergency departments. Its integrated health approach will help ease the burden on our broader healthcare system while delivering compassionate, specialized care for individuals in crisis.

The $25.8 million capital investment from DuPage County, the state and the Health Department will have a lasting impact. In turn, the community will be motivated to continue advocating for additional behavioral health programs modeled after this one. The collaboration between hospitals, law enforcement, EMS and other community organizations speaks to the strength and unity behind this vital project.

As a resident and a future mental health clinician, I commend all the efforts made to bring the CRC to life. By investing in direct access to mental health and substance use treatment, DuPage County is setting a powerful example of how local governments can lead in addressing behavioral health needs.

Andrew J. Tate

Winfield