Nick McWilliams reporting – The mental health of residents in Tuscarawas County remains a pressing issue, with a recent meeting regarding the subject serving as a brainstorming session.
From a study conducted by the National Alliance of Mental Issues, in February of 2021, over 43 percent of adults in Ohio reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. One in 20 Americans experience serious mental illness each year, according to the same study.
Recently, according to Dover Mayor Shane Gunnoe, some local officials recently met to discuss the topic.
“Safety Director [Gerry] Mroczkowski, [Police] Chief [Paul] Bantum, and myself met with Senator [Al] Landis and met with representatives from Union Hospital, the city of New Philadelphia, and the sheriff’s office. We discussed the growing mental health need in our county, and to look for ways to better ensure we’re getting services to those who need it most. I expect the group to continue to meet with additional stakeholders in the future.”
A large portion of those who do not receive treatment for their mental health report cost and accessibility as being top reasons.
Locally, resources include the ADAMHS Board, Community Mental Health, and OhioGuidestone, and anyone struggling with their mental health is encouraged to find out more on their websites.
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