Mental Health Services Available in Cloquet

Cloquet residents never thought a shooting would happen so close to home. And now, some are having challenges finding their way. Fortunately there is a local place that can help emotionally guide those in need…out of the confusion and into clarity.

Haley Rilea with the Human Development Center or HDC, provides mental health services in Cloquet.

“I think it has created an increase of stress, fear, anxiety which are normal and natural responses to something like this.”

She says unexpected events like the shooting that happened on Monday, put an indelible mark on the human psyche…and it is normal to experience feeling of increased stress, fear and anxiety. She notices people in their small community are on edge.

” There is uncertainty. Things like this don’t happen on a regular basis. ”

The shock of a sudden and unfamiliar tragedy breeds anxiety, and worry. She also says there are layers of trauma. First there was the shelter in place order.

“The local schools around here were having events going on. They all have to lock down. And a few other community organizations or businesses having to do that, so even just the lock down and shelter in place. The unknown was scary for people. ”

Then came news about the actual shooting. Rilea stresses acknowledging your feelings. Don’t try to hide it from others.

“It is natural to have feelings that people are having. It is a natural response to an abnormal situation. Pay attention to those feelings. And it’s okay to get talk to somebody to get additional support and help for it. Because no one should ever get through something like that on their own. ”

Which is where HDC comes in. Their services are not just for adults. HDC has also has a strong, working relationship with the schools…now made even more significant with the shooting.

“We already have therapists on site. With this happening we have been in communication with the schools asking what do you need and how can we help? A therapist is on site so people can come talk about it for the staff, children, anybody. ”

The most important thing a person can do for themselves is to realize they are not alone.

“Talk to somebody. who can acknowledge how you are feeling. Other coping skills are some of the things that people would do to manage stess in a particjlar way : getting exercise, making sure you are taking care of your physical health. Eating healthy. ”

She says shrouding your real feelings, can, in and of itself, be the root cause for additional mental health challenges that can develop and create ongoing problems. She says it is never too early to seek help.

“People should reach out for help the first time they even think about it or consider it. Even if they are feeling like they can get through this. Maybe something additional would help.”

“Rilea says that through it all, our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Slowly, healing is beginning to take place, and she is seeing the community come together and support one another.”

Rilea also says to call 988 and speak with a mental health professional if you feel you need help. HDC provides a variety of mental health services, ranging from individual counseling to group sessions. Noone is turned away.