Home / Health / New Facility Tackles Youth Mental Health Crisis
New Facility Tackles Youth Mental Health Crisis
3 Nov
Summary
- A new $40 million clinic in New Jersey is dedicated to treating young patients.
- The facility provides over 50 beds for children and adolescents facing mental health crises.
- Designed with safety features, including anchored furniture and sensory rooms.
A significant expansion at the Carrier Clinic in New Jersey has resulted in a new $40 million facility dedicated to treating young patients facing mental health crises. This 43,000-square-foot child and adolescent center provides more than 50 beds for those in need.
The facility is a response to the growing mental health crisis among young people, with suicide being a leading cause of death for adolescents. Features of the new clinic include anchored beds and desks, heavy chairs, sensory rooms, gyms, and ample natural light.
Dr. Thomas Riccart, chief of child and adolescent services, noted that the clinic will serve children as young as seven who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe behavioral issues. Jasmine Samson, a former patient, shared how such a facility was crucial during her own hospitalization at age 13, finding art a vital outlet for healing.
Samson, who is now pursuing a graduate program in art therapy, recalled her nine-month stay as a "break" from an overwhelming inner world. Her former program supervisor expressed pride in her recovery and current achievements.
