One of the most common misconceptions about mental illness is that it doesn’t happen to “us,” according to Dan Becker, M.D., psychiatrist and medical director of Mills-Peninsula’s Behavioral Health Department.

• Helping a loved one

In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, about one in four adults in the United States has a mental health condition in any given year.

“It can affect people of all ages,” Dr. Becker said, “which is why we are so fortunate to have a comprehensive program right here on the Peninsula that serves our adolescents, adults and seniors.”

Mills-Peninsula’s Behavioral Health Department, which provides mental health and chemical dependency programs, is gearing up for a move this fall to a brand new, expanded, state-of-the-art facility currently under construction at the Mills Health Center in San Mateo.

“We worked directly with the designers to create a very safe, open, light-filled space for our patients and their families,” Dr. Becker said.

The new facility includes outdoor patios for both adults and adolescents in programs with overnight stays.

“Just as the new hospital in Burlingame capitalizes on fresh air and natural sunlight as part of the healing process, we took advantage of the unique location on the third floor of the Health Center in San Mateo to offer outdoor spaces,” says James Pease, project manager.

“We also incorporated high-end finishes throughout to make it feel more like home,” he added.

“We are the only place between the San Francisco County line and Santa Cruz that offers a hospital-based adolescent program,” Dr. Becker said.

Having such programs closer to home makes it easier for parents and family members to watch over loved ones and participate in their care, he said.

“We have a lot of community support for the expansion of our programs,” Dr. Becker said.

“Having our inpatient and outpatient programs come together in this outstanding new space will allow us to serve more people in a comprehensive way.”

For more information about Mills-Peninsula’s Behavioral Health programs, call 650.696.5909, or visit www.mills-peninsula.org/behavioralhealth.

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Helping a loved one

While you can’t force someone to seek professional care, you can give encouragement and support. Offer to help find a qualified mental health provider, make an appointment and consider going with your loved one.
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