Clubhouse offers community to combat mental illness – Yahoo

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A rehabilitation program in Grand Rapids aims to give those struggling with mental illness a community and a sense of purpose. The Sheldon Clubhouse is an “evidence-based, psycho-social rehabilitation model program,” Associate Director Tara VanDyke said. “Essentially, it’s a community-based program specifically for those living with a significant mental health diagnosis — schizophrenia, bipolar, major depression — meeting a variety of needs that aren’t really met elsewhere in our mental health system,” she continued. She said the program offers a sense of community and support with others who have similar experiences. Participants can work toward their goals for education or employment. Tormented Minds, Broken System: Gaps in mental health care before violence Clubhouse member Leasa told News 8 said before she joined the program, she felt very alone. She said she didn’t have friends or family to support her and was in and out of mental health facilities. “It was a very, very tough, dark time,” she said. Eventually, she was referred to Cherry Health. She underwent therapy and behavioral training and started making progress. That’s when her team suggested she join the Clubhouse so she wouldn’t feel isolated and could continue moving forward. “When
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