Mental Health Help Is Nearby
Open 24 hours a day, with no appointments or insurance necessary, the 24/7 Addiction Crisis Center located in Poughkeepsie, NY serves thousands each year.
Located at 230 North Road, this facility is run by the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral and Community Health and collaborates with Family Services, People Incorporated, Mental Health America, and Mid Hudson Regional Hospital.
Since its opening in February 2017, the center has served a lot of people ranging from children to elderly. It is a very warm and welcoming environment, with squishy chairs and couches, and a room made especially for children.
Upon walking in, clients are immediately greeted by a mental health professional or a nurse. These trained professionals are able to help clients deal with mental health or substance use crisis issues. The clients can stay at the facility for up to 23 hours, and receive follow-up care.
Jean-Marie Niebuhr, the Coordinator of Prevention and Harm Reduction Services said the center’s goal is to get the word out to as many people as possible.
“The more the word gets out, and the more we talk to people about it. The more people use it, the more people are able to access the services and supports offered here,” Niebuhr said.
Dr. Altha J. Stewart, president of the American Psychiatric Association, stated in an US News & World Report article that he believes that there is a strong desire not to appear different from others at work or among friends and acquaintances. “If you are trying to have a normal life, you don’t want others you work with or come in contact with to think you have a mental illness,” Dr. Stewart.
“There is still a fair amount of stigma around mental health meaning that people do not feel comfortable or feel shame about accessing help and I think that is more prevalent in certain communities of people,” said Niebuhr. “We really are trying to engage with these populations of folks who really still feel a lot of shame about accessing mental health services.”
The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral and Community Health hopes to continue to break the stigma so that everyone will feel comfortable asking for help.
The center is “going to make a positive difference in the lives of many people,” said Dutchess Legislature Chairman Dale Borchert in a press release.
It is located across from the Mid Hudson Regional Hospital and next to Rite Aid. Those in need of help can also call or text the Dutchess County Helpline at (845) 485–9700 or call toll-free, (877) 485–9700.
