COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — As mental health struggles among teens and adults continue to grow, the Northern Idaho Crisis Center is stepping in as a vital resource offering free, life-changing support across the region.
From Post Falls to Lewiston and up to Boundary County, the center provides 24/7 free access to mental health care for anyone experiencing a crisis.
The facility is a joint effort by Panhandle Health District, Kootenai Health and Heritage Health, and is funded by the state of Idaho.
For many, asking for help remains one of the biggest hurdles.
“I just kinda[sic] felt like the whole world was crashing down around me,” said Brittany Gibson-Hupalo, a former patient at the center who struggled with postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder. “It just, everything felt like it was crumbling. Like I just felt like I couldn’t do it anymore.”
Gibson-Hupalo said her symptoms intensified over time, leading her to seek help after a particularly overwhelming day. She contacted her doctor, therapist, and eventually a suicide hotline before discovering the crisis center through a simple online search.
Within hours, her path changed.
“I think they do a very good job here of doing a thorough assessment, to start making some of those initial decisions. Is it safe for you to go home? Do we need to have a safety plan? Do you need to maybe consider going to the emergency department to seek a higher level of care?” said Brandon Owen, clinical services coordinator for the Kootenai Health’s emergency department.
Gibson-Hupalo spent six hours at the center, where she received rest, guidance on medication, and, most importantly, reassurance that she was not alone.
“Chances are, if you come here, it’s not your best day. You really need somebody to spend time with you, to understand what’s happening — instead of just pointing you in different directions,” Owen said.
For Gibson-Hupalo, that understanding made all the difference. She now encourages other mothers suffering in silence to seek support.
“Seeking help isn’t going to hurt them, and it’s not going to hurt their families. It’s only going to improve it,” she said.
The Northern Idaho Crisis Center accepts donations to support operations, including hygiene kits and clothing. Financial contributions are also welcomed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
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