UNITY TOWNSHIP — When it comes to mental health, resiliency isn’t just a buzzword, nor is it a belief that things can get better, but rather a truth that they will. It is the ability to bounce back.

Marcy Patton, the executive director of the Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board, has seen that buoyancy firsthand, but she also knows that a little help can go a long way when walking the road to recovery.

For those impacted by last year’s Norfolk Southern train derailment, that road has been rocky. Patton, the recovery board and the entire Columbiana County mental health community hope to help residents still suffering from the stresses of the rail disaster find their way to mental well-being through the newly opened East Palestine Resiliency Center. The facility is located at 50410 state Route 14 in Unity Township.

“Resiliency is about getting back up after life knocks you down,” Patton said. “And many in the area have struggled to get back up after last year’s tragedy. The resiliency center is a place to help people get back on their feet and become stronger in the process.”

The center was made possible in the form of two emergency response grants the recovery board received with the aid of the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

The center will offer traditional treatment as well as alternative and creative approaches to mental well-being. All services are free of charge to eligible individuals while funding permits.

“We will build resiliency by treating the whole person and not just the symptoms of a mental illness, and we will do so by offering a long array of traditional and holistic activities for all ages,” center director Dianah Fabry said. “It is a place where individuals affected by the train derailment can find solace, guidance and the resources they need to navigate life’s hurdles. Whether you are seeking counseling, education or simply a supportive community, the center is here to serve you.”

East Palestine Village Manage Chad Edwards urged all area residents to consider the support available at the Resiliency Center and to make use of the help offered.