State, city officials attend ceremony at new Omaha mental health center
- A topping-out ceremony took place at the new Omaha mental health center, highlighting the shift from mental health awareness to action, and was attended by state and city officials during Mental Health Awareness Month.
- The $114 million Behavioral Health & Wellness Center at Children’s Nebraska will offer comprehensive mental and physical health care for youth, including facilities such as inpatient beds, a behavioral health emergency assessment center, and specialized outpatient services, with the center set to open in 2026.
- The project is a public-private partnership funded by federal ARPA funds, Children’s Nebraska, and private donors, with support from city and state officials, aiming to address the rising mental health crisis among youth by providing integrated and specialized care.
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On Tuesday, May 16, 2024, a significant ceremony was held at the new Omaha mental health center, marking a substantial milestone in the construction of the facility. The event, attended by various state and city officials, served as a testament to the commitment to improving mental health services in the community.
Topping-Out Ceremony Highlights Importance of Mental Health
The ceremony, officially known as the "topping-out" and "beam-raising" event, was a memorable occasion that brought together key participants in the project. Ken Stinson, the philanthropist and president of the Mental Health Innovation Foundation, highlighted the significance of the moment, saying:
"It's in honor of shifting our mental health culture from awareness to action. And I can tell you, this building behind me is about action."
The event was deliberately scheduled during Mental Health Awareness Month, which coincided with Mental Health Action Day for 2024. This strategic timing underscored the importance of moving beyond mere awareness to tangible actions that support mental health.
A Center for Healing and Innovation
The new Behavioral Health & Wellness Center at Children’s Nebraska is a comprehensive facility designed to address the growing needs of youth struggling with mental health issues. The $114 million center, set to open in 2026, will provide a continuum of mental and physical health care for children and teens. It will feature:
- Inpatient Hospital Beds: The center will have 40 inpatient hospital beds, an increase from the previously planned 38.
- Behavioral Health Emergency Assessment Center: A first-in-the-region behavioral health emergency assessment center, one of a small number in the United States.
- Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care Center: This will offer immediate assistance for those experiencing a mental health crisis.
- Pediatric Primary Care Clinic: Integrated outpatient mental health services will be available.
- Outpatient Eating Disorder Center: Specialized care for those dealing with eating disorders.
- Partial Hospitalization Program: An expanded program for youths who no longer require inpatient treatment but still need daily support and ongoing therapy.
The center will be situated on the west edge of Children’s Nebraska campus and is expected to revolutionize mental health care for young people in the region.
Public-Private Partnership at Work
The project is a result of a public-private partnership, with support from the City of Omaha and the State of Nebraska. Of the total cost, $16 million will come from federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds designated for mental health projects. Children’s Nebraska is contributing $15 million, and the remaining funds will come from private donors.
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert were among the dignitaries who participated in the event. Also present were State Senators Lou Ann Linehan and Machaela Cavanaugh, as well as Omaha City Council President Pete Festersen and council members Ron Hug and Juanita Johnson.
Addressing the Crisis
The need for such a facility is starkly evident. Mental health issues among youth, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, have been on the rise. The current capacity for effective treatment has not kept pace with this growing problem. The new center aims to bridge this gap, offering comprehensive care that addresses the spectrum of mental health needs.
Community Support and Collaboration
The collaborative approach to the project is a key aspect of its success. Children’s Nebraska has been working closely with educational institutions and other healthcare providers to attract and train the best mental health care practitioners. This community-driven initiative is designed to provide a supportive environment for both children and their families.
Conclusion
The topping-out ceremony at the new Omaha mental health center was a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to address the mental health crisis among youth. The comprehensive facilities and integrated services offered by the center promise to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. As the project moves forward, the community can look forward to a brighter future, where mental health is not just a priority but a reality.
