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WES Director on Mental Health in Huntsville/Madison County

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Mental health, News, pediatric mental health, suicide prevention.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Our Community

Paula Steele, Director of WellStone Emergency Services, presented to the North Alabama Mental Health Coalition, sharing critical insights into the growing mental health challenges in our community, particularly among youth. The room was filled with key community stakeholders, including HEMSI medical transport, local law enforcement, members of the VA, First Stop, social workers, therapists, and mental health advocates, all dedicated to addressing these pressing issues.

Paula highlighted the alarming rise in depression and suicidal ideation among children, driven by social media and bullying. Children now face bullying not just at school but 24/7 due to constant online exposure, taking a severe toll on their mental health.

Mental Health in Numbers

In 2024, WellStone Emergency Services served 1,615 adults. Of those:

  • 51% experienced suicidal thoughts
  • 80% reported depression or anxiety

Among youth, 74 children were admitted

  • 80% experienced suicidal ideations
  • 92% struggled with depression

These statistics paint a sobering picture of the mental health crisis impacting both adults and children in our community. They also emphasize the critical importance of addressing mental health issues early and providing ongoing care and support.

Working Together for Support

WellStone partners with the North Alabama Mental Health Coalition and other organizations to address these challenges by offering numerous resources.

Our goal is to provide support for the entire community—children and parents, as well as adults and their loved ones. We strive to be there for everyone, including those without loved ones or shelter, ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggle.

By collaborating with others, we aim to address root causes like the negative effects of social media and expand access to care and resources. Together, we can raise awareness, foster understanding, and create a more supportive environment for all.

Cutting the ribbon on WellStone’s 24/7 Pediatric Unit

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Mental health, News, News & Events, pediatric mental health, suicide prevention.

It’s a big month for mental health care in North Alabama. Thanks to incredible state and local leaders, along with generous donors, volunteers, and advocates, Huntsville is just days from opening a transformational healthcare facility for our kids.

WellStone, in conjunction with the Governor’s office and the Department of Mental Health, cut the ribbon on the WellStone Emergency Services Pediatric Unit last Thursday. It’s the first of its kind in the state.


The 24-bed, 12,000 square foot crisis care center is expected to fill a significant gap in and around Madison County, which presently has no inpatient psychiatric options for youth. As a result, HEMSI transports some 800 children out-of-county, and sometimes out of state, for appropriate care.

“Thanks to this facility, that number will drop, and Alabama families will be able to get help closer to home,” Governor Kay Ivey told the crowd of 200. “This new pediatric unit, with its thoughtful design and dedicated spaces for healing, learning, and celebrating milestones is going to be a true refuge for young people in crisis.”

A refuge for young people, and a godsend for their parents.

“I am so excited about the pediatric unit at WellStone,” said Ryanne Baker, a former Pediatric Emergency Department nurse whose own daughter was inpatient twice. “I think it’ll be a fantastic resource for our community. It’s going to take a heavy burden off the pediatric E.D. and provide a place for families in crisis to go where they’re not feeling like they’re a burden on the system.  It’s where they should be, with people trained and equipped to handle the needs that are unique to children and families in crisis.”

Jeremy Blair, WellStone CEO, understands that the new pediatric unit comes with tremendous challenges. But he also believes in the stellar health care team that will oversee the children’s program.

“We are lucky to have hired Dr. Edgar Finn to serve as the medical director for this unit,” Blair said. “We know Alyssa Perry will do a great job as the unit coordinator under the direction of Paula Steele, our WES Director. These individuals along with the team they have assembled understand the weight of the task, to encounter youth and their families during a time of crisis and offer a resource that could change their path when they leave this building. Our youth deserve this resource and this opportunity to heal and to recover and to live productive lives.”

The $9 million facility was made possible through substantial funding from the State Legislature, Department of Mental Health, and supporters of WellStone’s Be the Rock capital campaign.

“I’m proud of what we have accomplished and I’m even more excited for the weeks ahead as this facility opens its doors and begins serving our children,” the Governor added. “Thank you to everyone who played a role in building this facility and making this vision a reality. Alabama is leading the way, and today we take another step, ensuring that every child has access to the care they need.

WellStone is still raising funds to help cover the gap in construction costs.  Readers who would like to help us “Build a strong foundation of connection, compassion, and community for kids in mental health and substance use crisis” can make a secure, tax-deductible donation online here or contact Karen Petersen to explore major gifts and naming opportunities.

To see more photos, please visit our Flickr page.

Huntsville Pool Tournament Raises Funds for WellStone

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, overdose awareness, suicide prevention.

The American Poolplayers Association (APA) is serious about the game of pool. But the local chapter is also extremely serious about the health and well-being of its members. That’s why they hosted the first Mental Health Awareness Tournament in Huntsville.

Last fall, within a two-week period, the APA-North Alabama lost three of its players, tragically and unexpectedly. Parker Carnohan and Ben Ochoa died by suicide, and Carl Michael Cilyok, by overdose. They chose to create the fundraiser tournament to raise money for, and awareness of, mental health services, all while paying tribute to their dear friends.

The tournament was held at the end of August, just days before Suicide Prevention and Overdose Awareness Months.  More than 40 teams gathered at Bumpers for the tournament. Through fees, raffles, and individual donations, the event raised $2,755. Proceeds benefited WellStone, which serves more than 12,000 individuals and families every year, regardless of resources.

“This tournament meant a lot to me because without mental health treatment, there’s no telling where I would be today,” said Courtney Hopkins, a former WellStone client who coordinated the inaugural event. “Everyone is struggling, not just with their mental health, but financially and emotionally. The last thing I would want to worry about is if I can afford to get treatment. I know it helped me, and led to a better life for me, my husband and my children.”

Hopkins also appreciates the crisis care services WellStone offers to teens and adults struggling with mental health and substance use emergencies, including suicidal ideations. She, along with APA-North Alabama league operators, Cyndi Harbin and Lee Zeiher, recognize the lifesaving resources WellStone provides to folks in Madison County, Cullman County, as well as surrounding communities. They all worked hard to ensure the tournament’s success.  Winning teams!

“We are so grateful to everyone who came out for this event and extend a special thanks to Courtney and APA-North Alabama,” said Karen Petersen, WellStone’s Director of Development. “The turnout was amazing event its. The event itself was meaningful and it was really cool to see a packed pool house full of players supporting our mission and talking openly about mental health.”

After eight hours of shooting pool, Von Bryant and Carla Dustin Patton clinched first place; Tori and Tyler Petrie, second. Both winning teams added part of their monetary prizes to the WellStone donation.

Of course, the event was about more than raising money. It was also about raising awareness and encouraging people to ask for help when they feel depressed or anxious, or if they are facing any kind of mental health or substance abuse struggle.

“I want the stigma removed from this very important cause,” Hopkins said. “Everyone matters.”

Hopkins said they plan on making the Mental Health Awareness Tournament an annual event. So grab your cue and get to work! You have less than a year to sharpen your game.