10/03/2025
This reminds me of a time early in career where many locked/residential units for mental health and substance use were closed. Many state operated facilities shut down, some no longer physically standing. This includes Brainerd Regional Human Services Center (BRHSC) where I completed my 880 hour undergraduate internship.
In general, change can be healthy and needed.
Some services that are being discontinued have later been a regret in the field (in my professional opinion).
The reduction in personal accountability to create change with acknowledgement of symptomology as part of treatment of the person’s challenges has become part of the problem. The reduction in accountability (or consequence) has contributed to recidivism.
Problematic and harmful behaviors to self, others and/or the community should not be “washed” as it reinforces continued engagement in the problematic behavior.
Recidivism contributes to the annual debate in government over budgets, significant spending of money that is questioned of where it will come from and division of sides.
People matter. Our system and approach has continud to show it is not the most effective it could be.
That said, our community and field is reportedly going to experience another loss.
The CMMHC Detox program has been heavily utilized in central Minnesota. The change in dynamics that have contributed to reported decrease in use I am curious about.
Please become informed of your nearest services for support if and when you or someone you love is in need.
https://wjon.com/withdrawal-management-program-update/?fbclid=IwZnRzaANMyBlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHrk16yVVN9l5U1-EXC4hSWhR9tRSq9atuxCK6Tp3hmuUh8KHoJxcDKgN5jqH_aem_LchwEE9rvVQz9P9H1jjB7Af
The Central Minnesota Mental Health Center is closing its underused withdrawal management program in St. Cloud, affecting 25 jobs, but plans to enhance crisis services with a new facility nearby.
