United Way: Mental Health Association can affect physical health as well

When we think of good health, we think primarily about our bodies. To be truly healthy, physical health is certainly important, but good mental health is critical. Surprisingly, one in every four individuals will experience a mental health issue at least once in his lifetime. Depression, separation anxiety, stress or a number of other disorders affect both mental and physical health. Fortunately, for residents of Collier County, there's an organization dedicated solely to the promotion of healthy mental development through education, prevention and support.

Since 1957, Mental Health Association of Collier County has provided broad-based community mental wellness programs and has assisted many in need of mental health services. The scope of these services is far-reaching and wide-ranging: divorce education for families; self-awareness programs to help women improve self-esteem; senior caregiver counseling; conflict resolution support groups; workshops covering a variety of mental health concerns.

"We're not only about helping people to find mental health support; we're also here to expand the community's understanding of mental health," says Petra Jones, executive director for the Mental Health Association.

This two-fold objective is accomplished through acting as a referral network for those in need and by participating in area health and information fairs in conjunction with other social agencies to increase awareness of programs and services.

On a referral basis alone, the need for the association's services has been increasing. Jones cites budget cuts and cuts to social services funding as the reason for the rise in requests for assistance. The center made nearly 4,000 referrals in the past year, one-third of which were for children. The majority of the Mental Health Association's services and programs are free of charge; some require a minimal fee. A portion of its programming budget is funded by United Way but private donations, membership and fundraising are relied upon to cover staff and other expenses.

More than 54 million Americans will have a mental disorder in any given year, yet fewer than 8 million will seek treatment. Realizing that more than 90 percent of suicide victims have a diagnosable disorder makes the mission of the Mental Health Association even more vital. In all too many instances, people suffer in silence, or they aren't aware of how to find help.

In Collier County, it's a simple as picking up the phone. The Mental Health Association is more than happy to be a safety net, no matter what the mental health need.

One day your safety net may be provided by any of the 27 agencies operating with assistance from United Way. Your contribution to the 2004 Campaign will stay within Collier County and work for more than 100,000 residents who take advantage of available social services such as the Mental Health Association.

Patricia Wyche, marketing manager for London Bay Homes and a second-year Campaign Cabinet member of United Way of Collier County, is writing this weekly column during the annual fund-raising campaign, which ends Dec. 31. To learn more about the campaign, call 261-7112.