Mental Health Ministry

Mental Health Ministry

Our Lady of the Wayside, St. James and St. Edna’s, and have joined together for this very important Mental Health Ministry. We strive to provide support, education and awareness to our parish communities on issues related to mental health. Our goal is to break down the social stigma surrounding these issues, provide information, local resources, and emotional and spiritual support.

The National Institute of Health says 1 in 5 people in any given year deal with a mental illness. For 1 in 17, it is a serious and persistent illness and 1 in 4 of these individuals also have a substance abuse issue. Tragically, the stigma surrounding them causes isolation and often keeps individuals and families from seeking help. Our hope is this web page provides you with resources of support, education and hope.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Emergency info:

If you feel unsafe or are experiencing a mental health emergency:

• Call: 911
• Indicate it is a mental health emergency
• Request an officer trained in Crisis Intervention

Officers trained in Crisis Intervention understand how to de-escalate situations and strive for the best possible outcome in a mental health emergency. Click here to know what to expect when you call the police and request a CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) officer. Source: Vision for Change is an organization that provides mental health crisis training to 1st responders.

• 24 hour crisis line: AMITA Health, Center for Mental Health, Arlington Heights: 847-952-7460.
• Crisis Team: Alexian Brothers AMITA Health, Hoffman Estates (24-hour): 800-432-5005
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• The Living Room: provides immediate peer support for stress, crisis and mental health concerns and is a possible alternative to an emergency room visit. 847-933-9292, located in Skokie

Support Resources

For a list of excellent Support Resources, CLICK HERE

Educational Resources