GENESEO, N.Y., May 11, 2023 — Livingston County has joined with counties from around the country to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month during the month of May. This year’s Mental Health Awareness Month theme is “Look around, look within.”
Livingston County Mental Health is dedicated to improving mental health outcomes for all residents by addressing the mental health needs of the community, reducing barriers to treatment options and eliminating stigmas surrounding mental well-being. The County has implemented a number of innovative mental health initiatives and cultivated important partnerships in the local community to provide citizens with reliable and effective treatment options for their mental health.
In collaboration with the Mental Health Association of Rochester, Rochester Psychiatric Center, CASA-Trinity Inc., Noyes Mental Health and Wellness, and other community partners, Livingston County has expanded access to mental health services and provided critical resources to those struggling with mental illness. These partnerships collaborate to expand access to housing, youth and family support, and crisis services for youth, adults, and families, said Kristen Fisher, Livingston County Mental Health Director of Community Services.
“Our mental health providers bring compassion, knowledge and support to their work, and I am grateful to be surrounded by such caring professionals,” said Fisher. “Promoting mental wellness can mean something as simple as taking a walk in nature, connecting with people you enjoy, or spending quiet time in meditation. Livingston County has an array of services and providers that can join you as you look within.”
Livingston County Mental Health, in partnership with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, will embark on a Crisis Intervention Training initiative this summer. This evidence-based program provides law enforcement officers with education and tools to recognize and diffuse mental illness-related law enforcement encounters, increasing safety for officers and community members, and avoiding unnecessary arrests and hospitalizations. This initiative also aims to increase community awareness of available services so that law enforcement is used to address mental illness concerns only as a last resort.
The Livingston County Mental Health clinic is an integral part of the County’s mental health initiatives. This county-operated outpatient clinic is licensed by the New York State Office of Mental Health and provides services to children and adults with mental health needs. These issues may be the result of stress, significant life changes, or may be more chronic in nature. Staff there includes psychiatrists, therapists (social workers and counselors), nurses, nurse practitioners, and care managers. The office provides both tele-therapy and in-person therapy five days a week.
Staff is also available in the office for crisis needs.
Livingston County is working with the Suicide Prevention Task Force and the Genesee Valley Health Partnership to increase awareness of available services and support in the region, while addressing suicide as a real and preventable issue. Officials encourage area youth under 21 years of age to participate in a survey for a chance to win one of four $25 Amazon gift cards. The survey is available at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3MPJFD8.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis please call Lifeline at 2-1-1 to speak to a trained responder who can help link you to appropriate services. You may also call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 9-8-8.
For more information on mental and behavioral health resources, contact the Livingston County Mental Health Clinic at 585-243-7250 or online at https://www.livingstoncounty.us/152/Mental-Health-Community-Services.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is comprised of more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.