Hospital in Lincoln launches texting program to help students

LINCOLN, Ill. (WAND) — A hospital is launching a texting campaign to improve the mental health of Lincoln Community High School freshmen.

The LMH Community Health coordinator, Molly McCain says, "We are grateful for Lincoln Community High School's willingness to let us launch this project with incoming freshmen," adding, "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 healthily."

Students who enroll in the Railer Reach Out program will get texts with mental health and substance abuse resources.

Candance Schmidt, LCHS's assistant principal, says she is excited about 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. Together, we are committed to fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for all students."

The LMH Youth Mental Health Coalition created the Railer Reach Out program. The Bloomington-based Chestnut Health Systems and Brightpoint assisted in the development of the program. Birth to Five Illinois, Lincoln Elementary School District #27, Lincoln Behavioral Health Center, Logan County Department of Public Health, Memorial Behavioral Health, Sojourn Shelter & Services, Tri-County Special Education Association, and others are a part of the LMH Youth Mental Health Coalition.

The Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network gave a grant to fund the Railer Reach Out program. McCain says the goal is to expand the program to other Logan County students in the future.

If you want to join the coalition or have any questions, email or call mccain.molly@mhsil.com or 217-605-5014.