The Harrison County Commissioners approved of Resolution 32-26 recognizing May as Mental Health Month
Lisa Ward expresses concern in the next funding round for the MHRB.
JD Long
The Harrison County Commissioners approved of Resolution 32-26 recognizing May as Mental Health Month, at their May 6 meeting. Lisa Ward, from the Mental Health and Recovery Board, spoke before the board and said one in five struggles with mental health challenges.
“And we know one of the things that is most important is for individuals to have access to services when they need them,” Ward said. “And it’s just like a medical illness, they can’t wait.”
Ward also informed the board that the department wasn’t sure what their next budget will look like. Normally, they would have been given their state allocations by now but she said there might be budget cuts coming, which is based on population.
“But I think the good news is, at least here in Harrison County, I know the Mental Health and Recovery Board really appreciates the partnerships that we have with the health department,” Ward said. “They are really leaders here in your community around mental health awareness.”
She continued complimenting the county’s participation including the wellness and prevention coalition with many different providers available. She also complimented Sheriff Mark Touville and said the county was lucky to have someone as passionate as he towards the cause.
“He and I are the first to know we don’t have everything in place here,” Ward said, “but we’re hoping, we need to do things around Workforce to be able to get individuals that want to come here and stay and practice.”
Commissioner Dustin Corder then read the resolution noting the observance each May and it playing a crucial role in enhancing the public’s understanding and acceptance of mental health issues.
“Whereas, mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, impacting individuals, families, and communities across the county of Harrison.”
The resolution notes that mental health continues to carry a stigma, which prevents many people from getting the help they need. It encourages all residents to define what a good day is to you; to care for the whole self as in the mind and the body; stay in contact with friends, colleagues and loved ones to see how they are feeling and to offer support.
“Find the right path for you,” the resolution continued. “Mental health is deeply personal, and what works for one person may not work for another. Explore which practices, treatments, or other support best fit your unique needs and circumstances.”