Neighbors gathered Monday night in Castle Rock to share their concerns and learn more about a proposed inpatient mental health facility for teens and young adults.
The building, located at 864 Barranca Drive, was previously a senior housing facility. Sandstone Care Treatment Center says Douglas County has been inundated with calls for care, and this is the first residential program in Castle Rock for this age group. But the neighbors across the street are hesitant.
“I'm a little nervous because it's almost here,” said Rob Skinner, a resident of Metzler Ranch.
This facility is for people between the ages of 13 and 20.
Neighbors like Skinner are concerned about the safety concerns of moving into the facility.
“We don't necessarily know what risks are involved. You know there may be kids who have mental illness issues or drug issues or things like that,” Skinner said. Told.
Sandstone Care says people with mental illness, a history of violence or active suicidal thoughts will not be treated, but those with drug problems will be treated. This is not a lockdown facility and customers can leave whenever they wish.
“We just don't have enough resources to address our current needs,” said Erin Harris, a former teacher and founder of the mental health nonprofit Un/Do Mindset.
Harris said Douglas County needs more mental health services, especially for youth.
“You know today, right now, that these kids are being raised in an age of overexposure, but many of us at home don't necessarily know how to help them process something like that. And a lot of these teens and young adults are left to figure it out on their own,” Harris said.
Harris himself spent time in an inpatient facility after a mass shooting occurred at the school where he taught.
“I sought help to recover from my trauma, and I just learned so many amazing and wonderful skills and tools that I wish someone had taught me 20 years ago. That's true,” Harris said.
She says this type of care can save the lives of teens facing hardship.
“I've buried too many children,” Harris said.
Meanwhile, Skinner wants to protect the children in his neighborhood.
“There's a kindergarten across the street. There's also an elementary school and middle school at the end of the street,” Skinner said.
There will be another town hall meeting after Monday, after which the proposal will go to the Planning Commission and then to a public hearing at Town Council. If approved, Sandstone Care hopes to open by the end of the year.
