Chelsea's Success

Even before Chelsea was a teenager she faced challenges that most adults shouldn’t have to encounter. She’s lived on the streets, been sexually promiscuous, and struggled with substance abuse. When she was referred to Ohio Choices by the Hamilton County, Ohio juvenile court system she was frequently running away and had multiple arrests for minor offenses.

Chelsea has been diagnosed with a severe mood disorder, which was affecting her in many areas of her life. Mood disorders can include several types of mental health issues, like depression or bipolar disorder. Children diagnosed with mood disorders are often at a higher risk for other conditions such as anxiety disorder, disruptive behavior, substance abuse disorders and even physical illnesses like diabetes. These conditions may persist long after initial episodes of mood issues are resolved.

She was getting in trouble at school for violence, and sometimes her mother was forced to contact law enforcement because of her outbursts at home. Chelsea was at risk of going to a residential treatment facility, which was the last resort for her Mother who wanted Chelsea at home with her. National best practice is to serve youth like Chelsea in their homes as much as possible. While residential treatment facilities are an important component of a system of care, for most youth community-based interventions represent a more appropriate, less costly alternative. This is exactly the goal of Ohio Choices – to keep kids at home, in school and out of trouble.

Today, Chelsea has exceeded the expectations of everyone who knows her best. She has been on the honor roll for the past four semesters. She is a member of Mirror Movement, Key Club, Upward Bound, and Western Hills Cheerleading Team. Her Mother is especially proud of Chelsea and grateful that she is at home where she belongs. Chelsea’s mental health issues are stable and she successfully transitioned out of Ohio Choices and the juvenile court system.