Lincoln Memorial Hospital has launched a text message campaign aimed at improving the well-being of freshmen at Lincoln Community High School.
Students enrolled in the Railer Reach Out program will receive text messages about resources related to mental health, substance use and other health issues.
“We are grateful for Lincoln Community High School's willingness to let us launch this project with incoming freshmen,” said Molly McCain, LMH community health coordinator. “Nationwide surveys have shown that nearly half of all adolescents have experienced mental health struggles like anxiety or depression. We want to give students at LCHS the tools and resources they need to address these issues in a healthy way.”
LCHS assistant principal Candace Schmidt said she is excited for the partnership.
“This collaboration will significantly enhance our community support network, ensuring students receive vital mental health resources from the very beginning of their high school experience,” she said. “Together, we are committed to fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for all students.”
Railer Reach Out was created by the LMH Youth Mental Health Coalition, which is dedicated to improving the well-being of young people in the community by providing resources and support. Additional assistance was provided by Bloomington-based Chestnut Health Systems and Brightpoint.
Other members of the LMH Youth Mental Health Coalition include Birth to Five Illinois, Lincoln Elementary School District #27, Lincoln Prairie Behavioral Health Center, Logan County Department of Public Health, Memorial Behavioral Health, Sojourn Shelter & Services and Tri-County Special Education Association, among others.
“We are fortunate to live in a community where so many people are willing to come together to support the well-being of our children and teens,” McCain said.
The Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network provided a grant to fund the Railer Reach Out program. McCain said their goal is to expand Railer Reach Out to other grades and Logan County schools in the future.
Anyone interested in becoming a part of the LMH Youth Mental Health Coalition can contact McCain at mccain.molly@mhsil.com or 217-605-5014.