o The COVID-19 pandemic has increased anxiety and depression , and the true impact of the pandemic is no expect suicide rates nationally and locally to increase as much as 25 % over the next few years .
o Since many people have chosen to forego outpatient , partial hospitalization , or other care over the past s level of those seeking inpatient care has increased dramatically .
o Telehealth , while not perfect for every situation , has helped to improve the access to services , but many they will discontinue use of telehealth once the pandemic ends .
“ We previously had to allot a lot of time for travel between homes , but they [ care providers ] could increase case load due to telehealth . We worked through the wait list - people could get service in a week which is amazing .”
o Behavioral health and substance abuse issues are not mutually exclusive - many individuals suffer from bo to be treated for both simultaneously . The comorbidity of substance use disorders with other behavioral very high ; stakeholders said that efforts to address the issues must be coordinated and inclusive .
“ I spoke with about 35 people seeking some type of care for a substance use disorder problem this week . I ’ d say that nearly all had some additional form of behavioral health issue .”
o Stigma is perceived as greatly restricting people ’ s willingness to seek care for behavioral health issues ( es disorder and schizophrenia-related issues ). Stakeholders suggest that stigma is prominent in the general p some additional challenges due to cultural , religious , and income-related issues .
• The stakeholders interviewed truly care about the health of Polk County residents , and they indicate they want change . There is a strong desire and belief that – as one stakeholder said ,
“ Because of what we have all experienced since March [ i . e ., COVID-19 impact ], we now more than ever believe that we all need to work together to save lives and truly improve the health and wellness of our community – ONE communty !”
• Many stakeholders interviewed feel that schools are an excellent location to provide information and resources , as communications here can reach generations of families , catch problems early , as well as to help potentially avoid future ACEs .