The South Side of Chicago has long faced a shortage of mental health services, particularly for Black and Latino communities. Over 65% of these populations are not receiving necessary care for serious psychological distress, according to the Chicago Department of Public Health. The issue was exacerbated in 2012 when the city closed half of its public mental health clinics, disproportionately affecting the South Side.
However, efforts are underway to address this disparity. This week, the Ada S. McKinley Community Mental Health Clinic is set to open at Insight Hospital, aiming to provide essential mental health care to underserved communities in the area.
The clinic’s opening marks a significant step in expanding access to mental health services, an urgent need highlighted by advocates and health professionals. With the launch of this clinic, more individuals will have the opportunity to receive the care they need, contributing to broader efforts to address the mental health crisis on Chicago’s South Side.
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