The wide range of services through the Ben Gordon Center were explained by Manager of Crisis Continuum of Care Yemilei Schroeder during this week’s Rotary Meeting. The Ben Gordon Center can provide multiple specialty behavioral health experts for all ages. Schroeder said taking the step for access to a mental health behavioral professional is often a major hurdle to overcome for those needing treatment. She said the recently enacted nationwide “988” telephone crisis line number is the latest approach for expanding awareness to services. It is estimated that as many as 80% of calls can be resolved over the phone. Schroeder said there has been limited use of the crisis line in DeKalb County for now, but increased call volume is expected as more people seek out telehealth options. The Ben Gordon Center also offers an in-person drop-in space called their “Living Room” Center. No appointments are necessary and no insurance coverage is required.
Schroeder said treatment for those with behavioral health needs has recently transitioned into a 24-hour service. She gave as an example the Ben Gordon Center mobile crisis response team which works in tandem with the DeKalb, Sycamore, and County law enforcement agencies. The team consists of two people trained to help deescalate emotionally charged situations related to behavioral health issues and then provide resolution coordination to prevent a repeat of the situation. Schroeder gave as an example a special thank-you award by the City of Sycamore that went to one of their response team members for aiding an elderly resident. Schroeder said their teams are specially trained through crisis planning and best crisis follow-up.
Should you or someone you know be struggling with emotional or substance abuse issues or thoughts of suicide, call “988” for confidential support, learn more about behavioral health issues and help by visiting the Ben Gordon Center website at www.bengordoncenter.org, or visit the Center at 12 Health Services Drive, DeKalb.