Mental Health

Mental health not only affects a person’s ability to live their lives and carry on with life’s responsibilities; it can also lead to serious impacts on our social and physical health. Yet, no one talks about it. We think it’s time to change that!

In 2021, we held community focus group sessions to listen to the community directly on the top health issues impacting Greene County. This community identified mental health as a significant impact on our health in our area.

As a part of our work, our team is working to create stronger messaging to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

You can learn more about reducing the stigma around mental health here.

Our team here at the department is fully invested in helping bring much needed change to our community. As a part of that work, we have developed a comprehensive recovery support services program that aims to build recovery capital for those living with mental health, substance use, problem gambling and more. Learn more about this program, schedule an appointment, or simply connect with our team to learn more at this website.

You are not alone!

A message from our community…….

You have PTSD – A message from a member of our community

Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress

Take care of your body.

Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
Be physically active
Get plenty of sleep
Choose not to drink alcohol, or drink in moderation (2 drinks or less in a day for men; 1 drink or less in a day for women)
Avoid misusing prescription opioids and avoid using illicit opioids. Also avoid mixing these with one another, or with any other drugs.
Avoid smoking and the use of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. People can and do quit smoking for good.
Continue with routine preventive measures including vaccinations, caner screenings, and other tests recommended by a healthcare provider.

Make time to unwind. Try to do activities you enjoy.

Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations.

Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed but hearing about adverse events constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while. – Source CDC.gov