May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year’s message is all about turning awareness into action. The Henry and Stark County Health Department, alongside First Choice Healthcare, is highlighting that one in five adults struggles with mental health every year, with many not seeking help. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Paige Humphrey encourages everyone to protect their mental health, noting that resources are readily available for support. Meanwhile, the departments are also promoting regular blood pressure checks during High Blood Pressure Awareness Month and reminding event organizers of new food safety regulations. More information can be found on the health department’s website and social media.
May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, with this year’s theme “Turn Awareness into Action.” The Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare are urging individuals and communities to actively engage in mental health support. Statistics show 1 in 5 US adults experience mental illness annually, yet fewer than half receive treatment. For youth, only half get help. With stigma and an average 11-year delay to treatment, the call is for outreach and action. Paige Humphrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, reminds us that mental health is integral to overall well-being, and resources are available locally for those seeking support. First Choice Healthcare continues to support the community through dedicated mental health services, advocating for education, and the reduction of stigma.
Paige Humphrey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with First Choice Healthcare, notes, “We know that mental health is integral to overall health. People need to care for their mental health so they can respond to the stress of daily life and the challenges it presents. This Mental Health Month, we are encouraging everyone to learn about steps they can take to protect their mental health and balance both mind and body.”
You can also visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
May is National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are emphasizing the importance of regular blood pressure checks. High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it can go undetected. Residents in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are encouraged to schedule a screening, especially if it’s been a while. Steps to manage high blood pressure include taking medications as prescribed, reducing sodium, staying active, eating well, managing stress, and limiting alcohol. Area clinics offer support and services to help you monitor your health.
For more information, call our First Choice Healthcare Clinics at Kewanee 309-852-5272, Colona 309-792-4011, and Toulon 309-852-3115. You can also visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
As summer brings a packed calendar of fairs, festivals, and farmers markets, the Environmental Health Division of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments is urging anyone planning to serve food at public events to comply with updated food safety regulations. Organizers and vendors must submit required applications in advance, with specific deadlines for both event coordinators and individual food providers. Home-prepared foods remain prohibited unless properly permitted, and cottage food operators have additional registration steps.
Organizers planning to serve food at local events are reminded that proper permits and paperwork are required. The Health Department emphasizes that anyone offering food to the public, including free samples, must apply in advance and meet sanitation standards. Applications, with the appropriate fee, must be submitted at least five business days before the event to avoid late charges. Food cannot be prepared in unlicensed kitchens or homes. Event coordinators need to file forms ten business days ahead, while Cottage Food Operators must submit extra documentation, including water samples. When in doubt about regulations, officials urge contacting the department to avoid violations.
Full details and forms are available at henrystarkhealth.com or via the Health Department’s social media.