September is National Recovery Month, an occasion meant to celebrate and support Americans working to overcome drug or alcohol addiction while promoting new and existing evidence-based treatments.
In recognition of Recovery Month, NorthShore Health Centers is highlighting its substance abuse and behavioral health services. Headed by Michael Plebanski, behavioral health clinical manager and substance abuse, trauma, and mental health counselor, the clinic prioritizes being compassionate and adaptable while understanding how mental health connects with physical health.
“Mental health care is always evolving,” Plebanski said. “We’ve seen the mental health crisis hit an all-time high. The best way to describe our approach is by calling it a trauma-informed, integrated approach. It encompasses everything – people say, ‘Well, what does diabetes have to do with depression?’ It can have everything to do with depression! That’s why an integrated approach is critical to the overall wellness of our patients.”
NorthShore’s team of mental health specialists includes social workers, addiction specialists, psychiatrists, and more who work in tandem with their patient’s medical doctors to provide a comprehensive care program.
Some of their programs involve art, music, poetry, and cooking in their recovery process. Plebanski is also finalizing a Peer Support Services Program, which connects patients to another peer to discuss addiction, mental health, and medical issues.
“We want to utilize all of our resources, resources that we have right here in our community for patients and their families,” he said. “I can’t tell you how many clients come in, and they just didn’t know that there was help out there.”
All of the NorthShore behavioral health team believe in the importance of breaking the taboo surrounding discussing mental health and substance abuse issues. They are set to take part in the Northwest Indiana Out of the Darkness Walk at Wicker Memorial Park in Highland on September 30.
Coordinated on a national level by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Out of the Darkness walks are meant to give people a chance to unite with others who have a connection to mental health challenges – be it themselves, loved ones, or loved ones lost.
“This is about community engagement; it’s a kind of healing process for a lot of people,” Plebanski said. “Suicide prevention, substance abuse, all of these things that just aren’t talked about, need to be. That’s how we’re going to help people that need it, by having these tough conversations. They’re critical for the healing process of individuals and communities because these things don’t just impact one person.”
NorthShore staff members, patients, family members, and community members are coming together to march at the Northwest Indiana Out of the Darkness Walk.
“Everyone here has been impacted by this,” Plebanski said. “Sharing those stories, being a part of that walk, it’s all a part of the healing process. We want to spread our message, to let people know we’re here. We want everyone to know that anyone can walk in from off the street and get the help they need.”
To join NorthShore Health Centers at the Northwest Indiana Out of the Darkness Walk on September 30, register online for free at afsp.org/nwindiana. For more information about NorthShore Health Centers, visit northshorehealth.org
