RISE Behavioral Health and Wellness

10/22/2025

08/11/2025

When we first started bringing Teen Mental Health First Aid to Douglas County schools, the numbers were heartbreaking: 43% of 10th graders felt so sad or hopeless it was hard to function and 24% had seriously considered su***de.

Since launching the program, we’ve seen those numbers start to go down. That’s huge. It means more teens are reaching out for help, more friends know how to respond, and the stigma around mental health is starting to crack.

tMHFA is more than just a class—it’s life skills. Students learn how to notice when a friend is struggling, start the conversation, and connect them to help. They walk away feeling more confident, more connected, and more ready to look out for each other.

And we are not stopping here. We’re about to start the program again in local high schools this semester—to ensure all eligible students are trained in Teen Mental Health First Aid.

Thanks to a generous gift from a community member, all donations made to this program will be matched up to $5,000, which means your donation will go twice as far.

Give today, and your donation will go twice as far to keep this program in our schools, and keep our students safe: https://www.risedoco.com/donate

Let’s keep these numbers moving in the right direction—because every teen deserves to feel supported and seen.

06/19/2025

HUGE thanks to Tuscola Odd Fellows Lodge #316 for their generous donation to our Teen Mental Health First Aid program. It is because of generous donations like these we are able to continue our prevention work in the community. We are so grateful!!

Noble Grand Dani Kusman presents a check to RISE Behavioral Health and Wellness to support their Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) program.

(L to R: Dr. Shane Brown, Lauren Christina, Barbara Lackey, Dani Kusman)

As teen mental health challenges continue to rise across the country, Douglas County is responding with action. In partnership with local school districts, and community organizations, RISE Behavioral Health and Wellness is brings the nationally recognized Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) program to all high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors in the county.
The initiative couldn’t come at a more critical time.

According to the CDC’s 2021 Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey, over one in three U.S. high school students experienced poor mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, and nearly half felt persistently sad or hopeless. In 2023, Douglas County data mirrored these trends as 43% of 10th graders in Douglas County reported feeling so sad or hopeless almost every day for two weeks that it impacts their daily activities, and 24% seriously considered su***de.
Teen Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based training that teaches teens how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among peers. Studies have shown the program reduces stigma, increases confidence in offering help, and strengthens su***de prevention skills.

To support the students, 10% of school staff and additional community members will also receive Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training, ensuring teens have informed, caring adults to turn to. Mental health clinicians from RISE and trained staff from the Douglas County Health Department will be on-site during trainings to offer additional support.

This upcoming school year will be the third year of conducting the program at all public school in Douglas County. The results are already making an impact. In post-program surveys, 90% of students said they would recommend the course, and 8 out of 10 called it “extremely important.” Student feedback highlights the program’s relevance and power, with one student sharing, “I think it’s great schools are doing this, and I think it will help out a lot of people.”

Local school principals agree, noting the program is helping reduce stigma, build student confidence, and create a stronger sense of connectedness among peers. One principal emphasized, “If we could provide this each year to our sophomores, juniors, and seniors and incorporate it into our health curriculum, we are guaranteeing that every student is equipped with the tools to protect themselves and their peers.”

When nearly 1 in 4 Douglas County 10th graders considers su***de, this kind of proactive education can be life-changing—and life-saving. In 2025, our Douglas County statistics reflect the impact of this program. Current statistics show a five percent decrease in 10th graders who feel so sad or hopeless almost every day for two weeks that it impacts their daily activities and an 11% decrease in students who seriously consider su***de.

Preventative programs like these are available because of the generosity of the Douglas County community. RISE is proud to announce a generous donation from the Odd Fellows, which will help ensure the continuation and expansion of the Teen Mental Health First Aid program in Douglas County. Their support underscores the importance of community investment in youth mental health and the belief that together, lasting change is possible.

To learn more about the Teen Mental Health First Aid program or get involved, visit http://www.risedoco.com or contact Lauren Christina at 217-253-4731.

06/18/2025

06/11/2025

🚨 We’re Hiring! 🚨
Looking for a chance to make an impact, grow your skills, and work with an amazing team? This might be the opportunity you've been waiting for!

📌 Outpatient Counselor and Substance Use Counselor
📍 Location: Douglas County
🕒 Full-Time, Competitive Benefits Available

We’re on the lookout for someone who is passionate, driven, and ready to contribute to meaningful work. If that sounds like you (or someone you know), apply today or tag a friend who should!

🔗 email resume to risebhw@risedoco.com

06/05/2025

UPDATE: Visit RISE Behavioral Health and Wellness for more information on times and details!

🌞 Summer Fun with a Purpose!

The Douglas County Health Department is proud to partner with RISE to offer free summer groups designed to help kids build confidence, improve communication, and grow social-emotional skills — all while having fun in a supportive setting!

💛 These weekly sessions provide a safe space where children can express themselves, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections with peers.

📞 Space is limited — call 217-253-4731 to sign up today!

05/28/2025

🌞 RISE Summer Groups for Kids Are Here! 🎉👧🏾🧒🏼

This summer, give your child the chance to connect, grow, and shine in our fun and supportive RISE Community Groups for Children! 💛

In collaboration with the Douglas County Health Department, our groups are designed to help kids build confidence, express themselves, and develop important social-emotional skills — all in a safe, nurturing space.

🎨 Code Name: Confidence: Art & self-expression
🧘‍♀️ Operation: Organized: Goal Setting and Routines
🗣️ Mission: Social: Communication & confidence
🤝 Code Name: Brick Builders: Social skills & teamwork

📅 Weekly sessions
📲 Spots are FREE but limited — sign up now! Call 217-253-4731

Let’s make this summer joyful, meaningful, and full of connection for our youngest community members! 💫

04/22/2025

Small moments of care can make a big difference.

Taking time for mindfulness and self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Whether it’s a deep breath, a quiet walk, or a moment of gratitude, these practices can help ease stress and refocus your energy.

04/19/2025

Happy Friday! As we head into the weekend, what are some of your favorite activities to take care of your mental health and wellness?

https://www.counseling.org/CAM

04/08/2025

Stress looks different for everyone.

Sometimes it shows up in our mood, our sleep, or even in how we interact with others. It’s important to recognize the signs—and know when it’s time to reach out for support. There’s no shame in seeking support, your mental health matters.

04/07/2025

📣 We Want to Hear From You! 📝

We're conducting a Senior (55+) Needs Assessment Survey to better understand what programs, services, and support you or your loved ones need most. 💬

Whether you're a senior, a caregiver, or just someone who cares about our aging community, your input is invaluable. 💖

✅ It only takes a few minutes
📆 Available until May 15, 2025
🔗 Take the survey now: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/T9C7CLD

Let’s build a stronger, more supportive senior community—together. Thank you for being part of the change! 🙌

04/03/2025

Did you know April is Stress Awareness Month?

At RISE, we believe in supporting your mental well-being every step of the way. Stress is a part of life, but how we understand and manage it can make all the difference.

Throughout April, we’ll be sharing some tips and tools to help you recognize signs of stress and build healthy habits for coping. Whether it's setting boundaries, taking mindful breaks, or simply checking in with yourself, small changes can have a big impact.

Let’s take this month to pause, breathe, and prioritize our mental health!