Isanti County is ready to take its next step in supporting community members who suffer from mental health issues.
As expressed by Isanti County Public Health Director Tony Buttacavoli, mental health awareness is something the county wants to improve.
Buttacavoli presented his plan for the new year at the March 2 Community Health Board meeting.
The top priority for the county this year is to create events, such as the recent Let’s Talk About It mental health forum, and other programs that can allow people with mental health problems to find the help they need.
During the most recent community health assessment, it was made clear that mental health is a big issue for the area.
“Our goal is to raise awareness for people struggling with mental health needs,” Buttacavoli said.
He called mental health awareness and well-being the county’s, “No. 1 need right now.”
If you or someone you know is struggling from mental health issues, the county has many ways to help. To learn about options, search for “mental health” in the Family Services Department on the Isanti County website. The site details options for people in need of help, as well as several numbers for counseling around the area.
The final part of the Community Health Board presentation featured the announcement of a new dental service.
Isanti County Public Health will be sponsoring the new service, which is geared toward helping people ranging from infants to adults age 26 and pregnant women. Adults must also be eligible for Medical Assistance.
The clinics will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and will take place March 2, May 4, July 6, Sept. 7 and Nov. 2.
The Isanti County commissioners are excited about this new service, as Chairperson Susan Morris said, “Dental health is a large part in being healthy.”
In other news:
• Parks Director Barry Wendorf received approval to purchase a new lawn mower for local parks as well as a new Bobcat. Wendorf said the Bobcat will help keep trails clear in the winter, as most of them are not accessible by large motor vehicles.
• Ratified the hire of new social worker Kendra Zurn in Family Services.
