Cheryl Platzman Weinstock | KFF Health News (TNS)
If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing “988,” or the Crisis Text Line by texting “HOME” to 741741.
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Aimee Quicke has been in and out of emergency rooms, hospitals, and psychiatric facilities for mental health crises, including suicidal thoughts, since she was 11. Despite the numerous visits, she often felt that nothing was changing. That’s when she discovered Rhonda’s House, a rural peer respite program that focuses on providing a supportive environment for individuals in crisis without requiring immediate medical attention. At respites like Rhonda’s House, patients are treated as guests, allowing them to preserve their dignity and hold onto their personal belongings.
During her weeklong stay at Rhonda’s House, Aimee Quicke experienced breakthroughs in her self-esteem and coping skills. She credits the program with helping her navigate the challenges of 2020. This type of respite facility, along with others established across the country, has the potential to address the growing mental health crisis, particularly in terms of suicide prevention.
Respite facilities employ trained peers to provide care and offer an alternative for individuals who would otherwise turn to overburdened emergency rooms and psychiatric institutions. Currently, there are 42 community-based respite programs operating in 14 states, with new ones opening recently in Tacoma, Washington, and Grand Rapids, Michigan. These facilities are typically funded by a combination of local, state, and federal grants.
While the effectiveness of respite programs is largely anecdotal, studies have indicated positive results, including reduced hospitalizations and increased engagement with community support services. However, more research is needed to further analyze the outcomes and address any issues. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is currently conducting a cost-benefit analysis of respite programs.
Respite programs are especially crucial in rural areas, where suicide rates have increased significantly. By increasing awareness and expanding these programs to states with high suicide rates, such as Wyoming, Montana, Alaska, and New Mexico, more individuals can access the care they need.
Rhonda’s House in Dewitt, Iowa, has been providing care for individuals in crisis for the past five years. Peer specialists in Iowa undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure quality care. The average cost of staying at Rhonda’s House is much lower than a hospital stay, making it a more accessible option for many individuals.
Aimee Quicke, having benefited from her stay at Rhonda’s House, was able to utilize the coping skills she learned to navigate subsequent challenges. Peer respite programs like Rhonda’s House may not be perfect, but they have proven to be effective in providing much-needed support.
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(KFF Health News, formerly known as Kaiser Health News (KHN), is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs of KFF — the independent source for health policy research, polling and journalism.)
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