Concerns About Managing Chronic Illness
Lack of Mental Health Providers and Services
Cost of Living is Unaffordable
Community members reported that high costs associated with managing chronic illnesses including transportation, co-pays, medications, and healthy foods needed to manage conditions such as diabetes pose significant barriers to care and adherence. Potential improvement strategies identified by participants included expanding screening and early detection, increasing access to affordable healthy food, and enhancing transportation options to healthcare facilities and grocery stores.
Focus group participants observed an increase in the number of individuals experiencing mental health challenges and expressed concern about the limited availability of services to support and treat these issues. Demand for general mental health providers including therapists, counselors, sobriety programs, group therapy, and support groups exceeds availability for both youth and adults. When mental health needs go untreated, symptoms worsen, leading to increased crisis situations, absenteeism, and greater reliance on emergency services.
The increasing cost of living, particularly housing, was identified as a significant concern across all focus groups. Housing affordability has declined as rental and mortgage costs in the local market rank among the highest in the nation, while wages have remained largely stagnant. Residents described the difficult trade-offs between paying for rent, food, healthcare, or medications, noting that instability in basic needs directly undermines physical and mental health and overall quality of life.
Community Strengths Identified Through Focus Groups
In addition to barriers, focus group participants consistently described community assets that support health and quality of life. Three themes emerged:( 1) Natural environment and recreational opportunities residents expressed deep appreciation for Washoe County’ s mountains, lakes, trails, and climate, which support year-round physical activity and mental health;( 2) Social and community connection— participants highlighted positive neighbor relationships and a general sense of community mutual aid as essential contributors to wellbeing; and( 3) Community food resources the Food Bank of Northern Nevada( FBNN) was widely recognized as a vital asset, valued for its non-discriminatory approach and mobile distribution programs that bring food directly to underserved neighborhoods.
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