Genesee County, like communities across the country, faces significant mental health challenges that require a holistic approach to solve. One in five Americans struggle with mental health issues, and that figure is on the rise. In a county the size of Genesee, that equates to more than 80,000 residents who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or other serious mental health challenges that impact their daily activities at home, school or work. 

In the City of Flint, for example, the rate of childhood mental health issues is rising at an alarming rate. Further, mental health issues impact children far younger than was the norm just a decade ago — and are locally higher than the national average.

Fortunately, Genesee County is ahead of the curve in terms of available and affordable mental health services for residents, with one provider for every 299 residents. That being said, it is crucial that we ensure residents have awareness of available resources and that they become a part of the broader approach to healthcare for residents and organizations.

“Mental health resources for young people are not just a luxury anymore,” said Delrico J. Loyd, Chairman of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners. “Mental health support services for young people are critical because we know the lifelong adverse impacts that childhood trauma can have, and we all know people who have experienced these challenges. It’s an issue that hits close to home for so many in our community.”

Expanding access to mental health services through community initiatives, and focusing resources on ending the stigma that still prevents many from seeking the mental health resources they need, can help facilitate early intervention and ongoing support for individuals and families grappling with mental health challenges. Furthermore, enhancing collaboration between providers and local organizations can create a more cohesive approach to mental healthcare that benefits all residents, especially the most vulnerable.

Mental Health First Aid

Just this week, more than 70 Genesee County employees took part in one of two Mental Health First Aid trainings to ensure mental health awareness remains at the heart of who we are as an organization, one that values our employees. With information provided by the National Council for Behavioral Health, staff learned how to recognize signs and symptoms of mental health challenges in the workplace — and how to intervene when and where it is appropriate. 

“Mental health awareness is vital to a strong, employee-focused organizational culture,” said Jerome Threlkeld, Organizational Development Coordinator for Genesee County. “Our employees deserve to work in an environment in which they feel valued, supported, and empowered to bring their whole, authentic selves to work. We cannot have an inviting and supportive organizational culture without prioritizing the mental well-being of all employees, and that is what we are committed to doing.”

Research shows that organizations focusing on employee mental well-being not only have happier, healthier employees but also see productivity increases of up to 12% and substantially lower turnover rates. When employers demonstrate genuine support for their employees’ mental health, they garner greater job satisfaction and engagement, significantly reducing the risks of burnout. This not only benefits employees’ mental health but also supports the overall health of Genesee County as an organization by retaining talent and enhancing productivity that ultimately makes a positive impact on our residents.

To that end, Genesee County is rolling out a new resource for employees called WeConnect, a digital platform that provides real-world support for mental and behavioral health. This new service will be rolled out in the coming weeks.

Community Mental Health Millage

In January 2021, the Genesee County Board of Commissioners approved ballot language for a new Community Mental Health Millage aimed at expanding and supporting mental health services across the county. Later that year, Genesee County voters approved the millage, with the first year of funding being implemented in 2022. The resources funded by the millage can directly address mental health challenges and support critical programs that enhance the lives of residents across the county. Initiatives that provide mental health training for local businesses and promote mental health awareness in the workplace can further enhance the well-being of both residents and employees alike.

As Genesee County continues to showcase mental health programs and services, a collaborative effort with businesses, schools, and healthcare providers will be essential to foster a supportive community ecosystem. Recognizing that mental health is a shared community responsibility is a great step toward supporting healthy, safe and livable communities across Genesee County.

Resources

If you or someone you know is in need of mental health resources, please click this link for a Mental Health Resource Guide with information on a whole host of resources available in Genesee County.

There are also many resources available from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing as well as the State of Michigan.