A new mental health initiative aimed at providing important resources to visitors was launched during a ceremony at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ William H. Harsha Lake in the Louisville area.
Water Shelter September 10, 2024, Batavia, Ohio.
This effort is a partnership effort with the Clermont County Department of Mental Health.
Health Recovery Committee, Clermont County Suicide Prevention Coalition, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, USACE. The goal of this initiative is to spread the message using signs such as:
We will post the phrase “You are not alone” and crisis hotline information throughout popular areas of the lake, including trailheads, boat launches, and recreational areas.
“Our public lands provide a sanctuary where everyone can discover what makes them unique.
Rest assured,” William H. Harsha Lake Manager Samantha Ferrarelli said. “For those who need a little more help finding peace, we are proud to support initiatives like You Are Not Alone, providing vital support to those in need. ”
The idea for mental health signs gained momentum during the pandemic, when Clermont County, along with the Veterans Health Administration, recognized an increased need for mental health resources on public lands. William H. Harsha Lake staff agreed to participate in the pilot program.
Louisville area employees, including Lake employees, undergo mandatory personal response training each year led by the USACE Critical Incident Stress Management Team. Ferrarelli explained that staff are trained on how to identify the signs of a crisis and respond appropriately.
“All of our staff are aware of the warning signs to look out for when undertaking a project.
They also check for things like abandoned vehicles and strange behavior, and they are keen to share that information with the group,” Ferrarelli said. “Some of our staff members participate in support groups outside of work.
It is about increasing our ability to help those in need. ”
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This is to ensure that signage is visible and accessible to those who need it most.
24/7 support is available by dialing 513-528-SAVE or 988, which connects callers to a certified crisis center near their location.
“Visitors can find solace outdoors, but there is still someone there.”
No matter what problem they’re facing, I’m the one on the other end of the phone who will listen and help,” Ferrarelli said.
Photo Date: September 10, 2024 Posted: October 29, 2024 13:05 Story ID: 484137 Location: Batavia, Ohio, USA Web Views: 0 Downloads: 0 Public Domain
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