NAPERVILLE — State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) is emphasizing the Illinois Department of Human Services’ new    mental health programs to help people who need additional resources for crisis support, housing and community care during their times of need.

“Residents are under additional pressure. We need to make sure that we provide them with assistance,” Ellman said. “Creating    these new resources can help so many people who feel the programs that are already in place just don’t work for them.”

On Monday, IDHS announced the roll out of three new mental health programs that were created to provide additional resources for residents. Working with local mental health centers and other less traditional service providers, the agency developed new clinical services and supports.

A new program called the Living Room Program is designed specifically for people in need of a crisis relief program to break the cycle of psychiatric hospitalization. It provides a safe and welcoming atmosphere where individuals can process an event while learning how to avoid a future crisis.

The Transitional Living Centers Program is a housing resource for people who have mental illnesses and need an immediate place to stay while they search for permanent housing.

The Transitional Community Care and Support Programs are for people who are currently in IDHS State Operated Psychiatric Hospitals and are preparing to be discharged. It will include funding for non-traditional supports, such as cell phones, food, clothing, transportation, and other additional resources needed for individuals to succeed as they transition back into their communities.

Individuals seeking help from the Living Room Program may seek help directly or be referred by first responders or medical professionals. Participants of the other two programs will be referred by IDHS and other providers.

For more information and to find additional mental health resources, click here.