Mental Health

New Wellness Center Focuses on Youth Mental Health Services

A new wellness center located at the Mathile Center, 860 Valley Street, Dayton, is set to provide comprehensive mental health services targeting adolescents and young adults. The center is designed to address significant gaps in mental health care for youth, focusing on early intervention and prevention strategies.

Comprehensive Services and Facility Features

The wellness center aims to serve around 800 youth annually through its wide-ranging programs. Last year, its wellness program alone reached over 250 young individuals, providing more than 7,000 hours of support. All services are offered free of charge and are voluntary, catering to individuals aged 14 to 24.

Among the services provided, the center offers substance use counseling, and therapists are available within five minutes of a patient's arrival. The facility also includes 48 inpatient treatment beds, each floor staffed with four psychiatrists to ensure comprehensive care. The design of the center prioritizes patient safety with ligature-free rooms and incorporates bright colors and natural lighting to create a welcoming environment. Additionally, patients have access to outdoor spaces aimed at enhancing their mood.

Innovative Therapeutic Approaches

The center offers a variety of therapeutic options beyond traditional counseling and therapy. Music, art, yoga, and dance therapy are available as part of its holistic approach to mental wellness. A trained therapy dog is also present at the facility 40 hours a week, providing comfort and companionship to the patients.

The center collaborates closely with local schools and community organizations to ensure its services are accessible to a diverse youth population. This collaboration is crucial for the success of the program, encouraging community involvement and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

A Focus on Accessibility and Early Intervention

Emphasizing early intervention, the center offers workshops and activities designed to promote mental wellness among youth. Trained professionals provide counseling and therapy services, focusing on accessible care for all youth. The initiative aims to fill the mental health workforce gaps and to improve overall support for youth mental health.

Services at the wellness center are designed to be inclusive and supportive, aiming to reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges. By engaging with the community and offering varied resources and programs, the center strives to make a positive impact on youth mental health.

Opening and Future Prospects

The wellness center began accepting its first patients on July 15, marking a significant step forward in youth mental health services in the Dayton area. With its comprehensive offerings and strategic collaborations, the center is poised to become an integral part of the community's efforts to address mental health needs among young people.

The initiative's ultimate goal is to foster a supportive environment where youth can access necessary mental health resources, work towards wellness, and contribute to reducing the overall stigma surrounding mental health challenges. As the center continues to grow and evolve, its impact on youth mental health is expected to be both significant and enduring.