Melissa Ellin

2 weeks ago | kbia.org | Melissa Ellin

Recent data shows that opioid overdose deaths have dropped nationwide, and researchers said the spread of opioid overdose reversal medications may be contributing to the decline. But studies suggest some communities still struggle with access and distribution of naloxone — also known by its brand name nasal spray Narcan. “Rural communities are very challenged,” said Scott Barrows, who directs the OSF HealthCare Innovation Design Lab student in Peoria, Ill.

3 weeks ago | nprillinois.org | Melissa Ellin

Before Marie tried ketamine for her mental health, she said she was deeply depressed and anxious, struggling to get out of bed in the morning and passively suicidal — she would often think about taking her life, though she didn’t make plans. She’d tried everything. At 16, Prozac. When that didn’t work, Zoloft. Then, she was hospitalized. Once she got out, Paxil — and that failed, too. “I’ve been on less antidepressants than I have diets.” Marie joked on a Zoom call with WGLT.

2 months ago | wglt.org | Melissa Ellin

The Community Health Care Clinic in Normal is now accepting applicants who make up to 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, or FPL. Previously, applicants had to make up 185% of the FPL.

Oct 30, 2024 | npr.org | Melissa Ellin

988 crisis hotline counselors are sometimes targeted by sexually abusive callersThis story contains descriptions of sexual activity. In 2023, Lily Lantz started a full-time job as a crisis counselor at PATH Crisis Center in Bloomington, Illinois. It’s part of the national network known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It was her first job out of college, and it was common to have back-to-back calls with people who didn’t see the point in living anymore, she said.

Oct 29, 2024 | wbhm.org | Melissa Ellin

Transcript:SCOTT DETROW, HOST: In 2022, the federal government rolled out a national hotline, 988, to help people who are suicidal or experiencing a psychiatric emergency. But counselors who work at these crisis centers are sometimes targeted by deceitful callers. Melissa Ellin of member station WGLT reports from Illinois. And a warning that this story includes details of sexually harassing behavior.