Transforming Child Wellness: Children’s Nebraska Secures $5.51 Million Grant for Innovative Behavioral Health Center

OMAHA, Neb. — Exciting developments are happening at Children’s Nebraska. A new Behavioral Health and Wellness Center is being built, promising top-notch care for families in the area and across the Midwest.

For many kids, this center could change everything. Sixteen-year-old Gracelyn Glaser, who is navigating her own mental health journey, emphasizes the importance of speaking up and seeking help. She said, “There are people who want to help. You just have to take the first steps.”

Gracelyn’s story reflects the struggles many families face. Her mother recalls how lost they felt when they first sought help. With the new center’s “No Wrong Door” policy, parents can rest easy knowing they will find the right support no matter where they start.

Accessing mental health services can often involve long waits. Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health and Wellness, Renee Rafferty, explained they’re aiming to shorten those wait times. “Families won’t have to wait for months anymore,” she said.

To support this initiative, Children’s Nebraska received a generous $5.51 million grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. This funding will help create a virtual and augmented reality program at the center. Gracelyn believes this could be a game-changer. She mentioned how a virtual reality headset could help kids regain control during panic attacks. “It can help them focus on what they can control,” she said.

A common fear for those seeking help is the stigma of being admitted to a facility. Gracelyn pointed out that many avoid seeking support due to this fear. She hopes the new center will alleviate those concerns.

The center will provide a full range of mental health services, from inpatient and outpatient care to urgent support. It will address various needs, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

This new facility is expected to open in January 2024, marking a significant step forward in mental health care for children in the region.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 1 in 5 children ages 13-18 experience a severe mental disorder at some point. The need for accessible and empathetic mental health care has never been more critical.

As mental health continues to be a pressing issue, centers like the one at Children’s Nebraska are vital. They foster an environment where seeking help is seen as a strength rather than a weakness.

For more information on children’s mental health, you can visit the National Institute of Mental Health.

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