SPIN program addresses mental health

By Ben Olson
Reader Staff

Recently, the Panhandle Health District conducted a community health assessment to determine what the top serious issues in our community for 2018. The 129-page report listed mental health was listed as one of the top four issues, along with access to health care, substance abuse and access to emergency housing.

The Sandpoint Community Resource Center is focusing on those four issues this year for their Service Provider Information Network program. This month’s meeting focuses on mental health.

The SPIN meeting for the second quarter will take place Tuesday, April 30, from 8-10 a.m. at the Sandpoint Library. There will be all of the major and minor service providers in attendance showcasing their services.

“Because mental health is so broad – it affects children, seniors, disabled, people in crisis, families – everybody will be showcasing their services on this issue,” said SCRC executive director Linnis Jellinek. “Each provider will give a short 10-minute talk which will be informative. We invite volunteers, providers and the public to learn more about what we’re doing.”

Jellinek said SCRC serves an important role as a “connector” between the general public and service providers.

“People need to know what services are available,” she said. “We’re the connector, so we need to know when someone calls in crisis, where to send them for assessment, or crisis intervention, or suicide prevention.”

Attendees will also have a chance to learn vital information at the program meeting, including what happens when you request a welfare check from Bonner County Sheriff’s Office.

“It’s an amazing service that they are available for, but are there consequences when you call for a welfare check?” said Jellinek. “Also, what happens at the emergency room when someone comes in and they have a total breakdown?”

The SPIN meeting will be held at the Sandpoint Library from 8-10 a.m. n Tuesday, April 30. It is free and open to all who would like to attend.

“It’s going to be a really informative two hours,” Jellinek said. “If you’re concerned at all and have been there and don’t know what to do, come on down.”