HOLLAND TWP., MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Nov. 28, 2024) – As the Lakeshore and the nation pauses to give thanks on a holiday specially designated for such sentiment, three needs stand out for the local community.
The Healthy Ottawa Advisory Council last week disclosed the annual Healthy Ottawa Plan. Based upon the 2023 Community Health Needs Assessment, which came through input from about 100 representatives from various sectors of the community, the report cited mental health, access to care and housing as the top health challenges facing residents in the county.
Among the findings, the plan disclosed that 16.5 percent of adults are listed in poor mental health, with suicidal thoughts increasing in adults and youth; rising housing costs has led to 14 percent of adults with housing expenses struggles; and 12.5 percent of adults are in poor physical health, many due to lack of insurance.
“Mental wellness is vital to a high quality of life for individuals and for families. While access to mental health care was a priority in previous Healthy Ottawa plans, the 2024 plan will take a fresh approach to this need. Members of the Mental Wellness Taskforce will work together to improve countywide access to mental health care when residents need it.” Dr. Michael Brashears, Executive Director, Ottawa County Community Mental Health.
A Mental Wellness Taskforce is planned to go over this report and come up with proposals to address these spotlighted issues. A link to the Healthy Ottawa Plan is here.
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