Release Date: 02/06/2019

Butler Hospital announced it has launched a campaign to promote two Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) providing specialized behavioral health services to young adults identifying as LGBTQ+ and/or dealing with depression and anxiety while at college. The campaign will run for several months and include radio, print, digital and transit advertising as well as a significant social media component. Studies nationwide have shown a growing need for providing young adults with increased access to these services.

“There is no question that young adults are suffering from, and struggling with, a variety of mental health conditions, contributing to alarming suicide rates and increased substance abuse,” said Sheila Russell, LICSW, director of Partial Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Services at Butler. ”Both the True Self and College programs are focused on providing intensive treatment in a supportive environment among peers, with a convenient schedule developed to be less disruptive to daily life and every day obligations.”

• The True Self Intensive Outpatient Program (LGBTQ+) serves individuals ages 18 to 26 years old that identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning, and who seek to address their mental health concerns in an affirming and supportive environment. The program explores the diverse challenges that occur for many young people, with a focus on issues such as family acceptance, limited social support, stigma, and self-acceptance that occur for some in the LGBTQ+ communities.
• The College Student Intensive Outpatient Program is designed to meet the specific needs of matriculating college students who are struggling to function in the academic environment due to mood related issues, such as depression and anxiety. The supportive environment empowers young adults to learn how to gain control of their mental health and strive to achieve their personal goals in school.

Both IOPs are accepting patients through professional or self-referral, and most insurance is accepted. These programs join eight other specialized outpatient programs already operating at Butler.

About Butler Hospital

Butler Hospital, a member of Care New England, is the only private, nonprofit psychiatric and substance abuse hospital serving adults, seniors and adolescents in Rhode Island and southeastern New England. Founded in 1844, it was the first hospital in Rhode Island and has earned a reputation as the leading provider of innovative psychiatric treatments in the region. The Major Affiliated Teaching Hospital for Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Butler is recognized worldwide as a pioneer in conducting cutting-edge research.