TWO GOVERNMENTS TO FORMALIZE HISTORIC PARTNERSHIP IN ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON


TWO GOVERNMENTS TO FORMALIZE HISTORIC PARTNERSHIP IN ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

 

VILLAGE OF MATTESON AND RICH TOWNSHIP TO LAUNCH HOLIDAY CHECK IN INITITATIVE TO OFFEST DEPRESSION AND SUICIDE

 

“The Matteson/Rich Township Holiday Check In Initiative”

 

 

(Matteson, IL) Sheila Chalmers-Currin-Mayor of Matteson, Il- and Calvin Jordan-Supervisor of Rich Township-are announcing a holiday initiative designed to combat and address negative stigmas related to mental health during the holiday season.


The “Holiday Check In” program will be launched in advance of the Christmas holiday season as some residents throughout the Village of Matteson and Rich Township are experiencing challenges from the nation’s declining economy, rising inflation and unemployment. Mayor Currin and Supervisor Jordan are equally concerned about the prior holiday seasons in which suicide, depressions and loneliness have been the growing challenges of many local governments and emergency services during the holiday season.


“Mayor Chalmers-Currin and I have conferred with our public safety leaders respectively and have been fully informed of the anticipated emergency calls during the holiday season that are largely related to matters of mental health. We sympathize with the countless American citizens who may not be able to provide a well-rounded Christmas for their kids and other loved ones. Our goal is to be proactive and offer residents the benefit of having their local and township government to check in on them during what may be a difficult time .”says Supervisor Jordan.


Mayor Chalmers-Currin adds, “The importance of our mental health check-ins cannot be overstated. By raising awareness and encouraging regular check-ins, we can break down the stigma surrounding mental health, promote early intervention, and foster a culture of holistic well-being. I am honored to partner with Supervisor Jordan and Rich Township in this endeavor which can truly produce positive outcomes for those in need.”


The municipal/township “Holiday Check-In” campaign encourages residents to intentionally reach out to neighbors, friends, and family members—especially those who may be isolated—during the holiday season. The city provides tools, messaging, and community-wide coordination to promote mental wellness and reduce preventable crisis.


Objectives:

  • Reduce loneliness, depression, and social isolation.
  • Increase community connection and neighborly support.
  • Improve awareness of local mental health and crisis resources.
  • Strengthening the city’s public safety and public health outcomes
  • Foster a culture of seasonal care and community resilience.


The city/township highlights specific groups that benefit most from community check-ins:

 

A. Priority Populations

  • Seniors living alone.
  • Individuals with limited mobility
  • Veterans
  • Caregivers
  • Recently bereaved residents
  • Residents experiencing housing or financial instability.
  • Individuals with chronic mental health conditions


The Municipal/Township 3-Step Check-In Method

1. Reach Out
Phone call, text, doorstep greeting, or holiday card.

2. Observe & Listen
Notice emotional changes or concerning behaviors.

3. Connect to Support
Provide contact info for city services and crisis resources.


Just as physical check-ups are prioritized, it’s crucial to give the same attention to the mental well-being of citizens. Mental health has long been shrouded in stigma, leading to a lack of open conversation and understanding. However, new approaches and strategies have come forth to reduce negative outcomes. With increased awareness and advocacy, societies are gradually recognizing the significance of mental health check-ins. Raising awareness is the first step in breaking down these barriers.

Moreover, regular mental health check-ins allow for early intervention and prevention. By addressing concerns before they escalate, individuals can receive the support they need to navigate challenges effectively, reducing the risk of more severe mental health issues down the line. Particularly during the holiday season.

The Village of Matteson and Rich Township are firmly focused upon making the holiday mental health check-ins an annual practice. Additionally, its collective underlying goal is to make it easier for individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.

The full-scale plan, mission, and other important facts about the Holiday Check Ins can be viewed on both the Village of Matteson and Rich Township websites, respectively.

www.villageofmatteson.org

www.richtownship.org

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