CHNA - Flipbook - Page 16
MENTAL HEALTH
Mental health was the top specific health need identified
within the Community Perspectives Survey. It was the
highest ranked issue through the Community Ranking
Exercise. Within Mental Health, there were four primary
areas that were highlighted within the community response.
“I’m a therapist and access to mental health
care is abysmal right now, while trauma and
mental health complications are increasing.”
– Community Perspectives Survey
Respondent
Mental Wellbeing: People indicated that having mental
wellbeing was critical for overall health. Many people who
indicated that they considered themselves healthy highlighted having overall mental health, healthy coping skills,
reduced stress, and balance of body, mind, and spirit.
Mental Stress: Our community reported widespread feelings of stress, isolation, depression, and anxiety. Isolation
due to the pandemic has only exacerbated these challenges and led to many people adopting negative coping
strategies.
Mental Health Treatment: Treatment for mental health was described as a key need in the community. The
community wanted to see more options for treating mental health issues, not limited to only treatment of mental illness,
but also development of healthy coping strategies and overall psychosocial wellbeing. People indicated that they don’t
know who to call when experiencing a mental health crisis, and don’t know what options are available. Affordability of
these services and insurance coverage of these services were also identified as challenges.
Culturally and linguistically appropriate care: One issue that came out very clearly was the need for more diverse
mental health interventions, both clinical and nonclinical. Issues of stigma were raised, as well as culturally and
linguistically appropriate care. While this need was highlighted under healthcare, people indicated that for mental
health, it was even more important to them to have access to culturally and linguistically appropriate supports. As
stated by a Verdant Resident,
Verdant Health Commission 2022
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