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An Iowa City recovery program is fighting the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction and in the process they’re reimagining what the healing journey looks like. The aim is to meet clients where they are, whether on the streets, in jail, in the hospital, or at home, and offer individualized and innovative care to usher them into the future they want and deserve.
The GuideLink Center provides round the clock walk-in services and inpatient care. Those experiencing a mental health or addiction crisis can get immediate access to care, which means a much-needed alternative to hospitalization or potential incarceration.
Their programs are designed to put an end to the revolving door of emergency care by helping clients start early on the road to recovery. Those who come to The Center for crisis care are linked to a comprehensive system of mental health care providers, addiction recovery specialists, social workers and case managers.
The treatment approach is based on the premise that everyone faces a different battle with mental health and addiction. For instance, many need crisis intervention outside of the typical business hours. Their clients come from all walks of life and bring an immense variety of needs.
Some are college students navigating the pressures of academic life. Others are new moms dealing with postpartum depression. Many are experiencing severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. And still others are unhoused persons who need urgent attention that cannot wait.
The staff believes increased options provide better outcomes, and that’s what they are striving to do. The facility can intake those intoxicated and offer medically monitored detox, mitigating a potential arrest. The center works with local law enforcement to help justice-involved persons with addiction or mental illness get into treatment rather than facing jail time.
So far The GuideLink Center’s approach is making a profound difference in the community. The Center reports almost 8,000 clients served and over 6,000 program admissions since they opened in February 2021.
And national campaigns such as the observation of Mental Health Awareness Month, are expected to lend further support to important community-based services such as these. With the proper support and increased access to effective treatment, those struggling with addiction or mental illness can put their pasts behind them and learn to thrive in their home, workplace and community.
