Mental Health issues are reaching the crisis point across the country. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), in 2020, 1 in 5 adults experienced a mental illness and 26.3 million adults received mental health services that same year. Children and young adults, who dealt with unprecedented challenges during the pandemic, mirrored those statistics, with 1 in 5 reporting the pandemic significantly affected their mental health, and a frightening 3.8 million – only those reported - had serious thoughts of suicide.
The Town of Simsbury takes the mental health of its residents of all ages seriously. As much as the town works to provide opportunities for physical health through our parks, trails and recreational facilities, Continuing Education, Senior Center, and Culture, Parks and Recreation Department classes and activities, it’s equally important to ensure the Town provide services to support mental health. Mental health issues are too often a “silent epidemic,” with stigma attached to getting help, non-diagnosis, and/or services not being available. We are fortunate in Simsbury to have a number of practicing mental health professionals, and the Town recognizes the importance of providing support, particularly for our vulnerable young people and seniors, with both groups being disproportionately affected on a national basis.
While I was First Selectman, and as I continue on the Board of Selectman, Simsbury is providing services and actively recognizing the need for mental health support so no one feels alone. I am committed to funding and providing needed professionals and programs for town residents.