Mental Health Treatment
A new facility for those dealing with mental illness is being called a place for hope and healing. One in four Nebraska families will need help. Lasting Hope Recovery Center is another place to turn.
One mother knows all too well why it's needed. Leslie Byers wrote Heather's Rage, a book that tells the story of her daughter Megan's struggle with mental illness.
Megan first went to a psychologist at age four but it would take years to get the correct diagnosis: bi-polar disorder.
Leslie says, "Threats against my life in front of the sheriff got the attention; her suicide attempt; her self-mutilation. I mean, unfortunately, a lot of individuals who struggle with mental health issues don't get the attention in time."
That's why Byers considers Lasting Hope Recovery Center a blessing. The 64-bed facility is a public-private partnership run by Alegent Health. Instead of a sterile, hospital-like setting, patients and their families will find open, inviting spaces.
Executive Director Tom Hickey says the center serves a real need.
He says, "If they're not being cared for here, they're showing up in our emergency rooms, in other settings, in jails and other places where they don't belong and where they can't get services they need. Overall, it saves money having people in the right spot getting the right care."
Leslie Byers knows the difference treatment makes. Her daughter Megan graduated from high school, mended family relationships and now, at 22, has a future ahead of her.
Leslie says, "If you can get help right away, then the individual can return to work, can return home, return to their community and have a very full and productive life."
Because Lasting Hope Recovery Center is only for adults, the executive director says it's not clear whether the needs of children and teenagers are being met.
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