Behavioral Health Services

Contact: 715.847.2205

We believe
Each person deserves a safe, secure and therapeutic environment combined with the highest quality care possible to aid in their recovery, with a goal of returning to his or her life activities stronger, healthier and getting the most out of what life has to offer.

Mental illness is more common than you think
At some time in their lives, nearly half of all Americans may deal with a mental illness. Depression, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are common illnesses and sometimes a mental illness may occur in conjunction with another physical ailment, such as heart disease, Parkinson’s, or diabetes.

Some signs that you or a loved one may be dealing with depression may include:

• Suicidal behavior or threats

  Referals Anyone can refer to the program – a physician, counselor, friend, family member, or patients may even refer themselves. Free and confidential information and assessments are available day or night by calling Behavioral Health Services.

• Unexplainable aches, pain, stomach ailments, h eadaches
• Lack of energy – increased apathy
• Sleep and eating irregularities
• Higher levels of anger or irritability
• Crying often 
• Loss of interest in things that usually care about
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Lack of concentration, unable to make decisions
• Severe mood swings
• Medication noncompliance
• Hallucinations

Mental and emotional problems can have adverse affects on our physical well-being and overall lives. At times, these feelings can be so overwhelming that we are no longer able to enjoy our lives or interact with others as we normally would. When this happens, it is urgent that we get help for our illness before the condition worsens and those down feelings become suicidal feelings.

Mental illness is exactly that – an illness, and just like any other physical illness, it can be treated. Those who suffer from depression, anxiety or other illness, can lead happy and productive lives with treatment.

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• Aspirus, NCHC collaborate to improve behavioral health care (Read Story)

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Our services

Patients admitted to the program are here to stabilize their crisis that led to their admission. We offer a quiet place to help sort things out and develop coping skills. A thorough physical and mental examination takes place to help determine the cause of the distress.

Based on those results, a comprehensive treatment plan is developed, focusing on the needs of each individual patient to assist them in understanding their illness and how to best deal with it and the stressors in their lives. Medications may be prescribed along with education regarding proper use and understanding the effects as well as individual, group and family therapies.

All therapies are designed to help the pat ient return to their normal day-to-day routine as quickly as possible. Upon release, the BHS staff will help coordinate follow-up care with counseling or a psychiatrist on an outpatient basis as needed.

Confidentiality is of strictest priority. The privacy of our patients is strictly maintained throughout their stay with us. Only with patient permission will family members, friends, personal physician, counselor or others be allowed to visit. However, family and friends are highly encouraged to be a part of the recovery process.

If you or someone you care for is experiencing signs of depression or other mental illness, please do not hesitate to get help immediately.

Behavioral Health Services offers two distinct programs of care:

Adult Inpatient Services

Behavioral Health Services provides an intensity of care that can only be achieved through an inpatient hospital setting. Signs and symptoms that you or someone you love is dealing with mental illness can include:

• Suicidal behavior or threats
• Assaultive behavior
• Sleep irregularity
• Eating disorders
• Severe agitation
• Medication noncompliance
• Severe mood swings
• Excessive and uncontrolled anger
• Hearing voices

Upon admission, the adult inpatient program can provide:

• Free, confidential assessments/consultations
• Continuous observation to protect themselves or others
• Comprehensive assessment coupled with daily program therapies and close medical supervision
• Psychotropic medication administration and monitoring

Older Adult Inpatient Services

Behavioral Health Services provides a safe, secure environment for adults age 55 and older experiencing behavioral and/or cognitive difficulties that affect their overall independence and mobility. Signs and symptoms that someone you love is dealing with a mental illness can include:

• Confusion or forgetfulness
• Anxiety
• Suicidal behavior or threats
• Assaultive behavior
• Sleep irregularity - too much or not enough
• Eating disorders
• Severe agitation or combativeness
• Crying spells
• Disregard for personal appearance
• Disregard for usual routine or social activities
• Medication noncompliance

It is important to remember that these are not just signs of getting older. They can be an indication of mental illness such as depression.

Diagnosis of and treatment for mental illness is possible - it can also save a life!