Mental health awareness in Ringgold County:
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What resources are available locally and regionally
By DALTON SHADLE
MOUNT AYR, Iowa — With Mental Health Awareness Month on the horizon or any other day it is important to bring up in conversations “Are you OK?” with those we know and care about.
Nationally, Iowa ranks on the lower end of the scale for mental health awareness with 92 of Iowa’s 99 counties being designated as mental healthcare shortage areas.
Mental healthcare not only impacts the person battling it, it also affects everyone around them: friends, family and the community. That’s why it is important to prioritize mental health.
“Mental healthcare is essential to the health of our communities,” Ringgold County Hospital CEO Nicky Gilbertson said. “When people have access to compassionate, timely support, they’re better able to navigate life’s challenges, care for their families, and stay connected to the things that give them purpose. Prioritizing mental health isn’t just good healthcare — it strengthens the well‑being and resilience of our entire community.”
Knowing how to access care is as vital as making the decision to seek mental healthcare.
There are local mental health resources that people in Ringgold County can access services as the Ringgold County Hospital, and through providers such as Zion. When battling mental health or behavioral health problems it is always recommended to seek professional help and to speak to a provider or licensed counselor.
“Ringgold County Hospital does an excellent job supporting mental health needs, and the community has been increasingly open and receptive — progress that reflects real movement in reducing stigma,” Gilbertson said. “Even so, we still see individuals who are hesitant to seek help or speak up, often because of lingering fears or misconceptions.”
“To keep moving forward, we can continue expanding conversations about mental health, increasing education, and sharing resources so people know support is available and normal to use. As we grow our services and outreach, spreading the word and reinforcing that it’s OK to ask for help will be essential to reaching those who still feel unsure about coming in.”
NAMI Iowa (National Alliance on Mental Illness) dives deeper into the statistics and overall problem of mental health in Iowa.
“Iowa, which ranks among the worst states in the nation for treatment — 47th in psychiatrists, 44th in mental health workforce availability and 51st (including the District of Columbia) in the ratio of state psychiatric beds to residents,” according to NAMI Iowa.
Iowa also has a 20 percent higher than national average for anxiety and depression with 42 percent of adults reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach also touched on the topic about why Iowa is in a mental health crisis.
“Struggling with mental health is a challenge people often face alone,” according to ISU Extension and Outreach. “The stigma around seeking care and a lack of awareness about available resources creates barriers that prevent people from seeking help. Combined with the fact that 57 percent of Iowa communities are facing a shortage in access to mental health care, many Iowans are left to manage depression and anxiety on their own.”
Zion Integrated Behavioral Health Services has multiple regional locations to access mental health resources. This gave a perspective on things that poor mental health can impact.
“Our mental, or brain health is just one part of our overall health,” an emailed from Zion said. “We are one interconnected system between mind, body and spirit, and we have optimal well-being when caring for all parts of ourselves. We cannot be truly healthy without addressing all of the parts. Mental health impacts relationships, work, and education as well. Our modern society with its pressures, pace and distractions work against our mental health. Unplugging from technology and connecting more completely with our environment, friends and family and experiences helps to protect our overall well-being.”
Zion recommends if someone is struggling with mental health is to call or text 988, visit Your Life Iowa website for resources, or talking to their primary doctor about referrals. Students can talk with their teachers or guidance counselors for resources. Several rural school districts have started to offer free counseling through an online service. In an emergency situation, where someone is a danger to self or others – call 911.
The Iowa Healthiest State Initiative offers some tips on managing mental health. Tips include:
* Stay connected: build and maintain strong relationships with family, friends and community
* Move your body: regular physical activity improves mood and reduces anxiety
* Sleep well: prioritize rest – poor sleep is linked to depression and other mental health issues
* Limit screen time: especially social media, which can negatively impact self-esteem and mood
Practice mindfulness: meditation, journaling or simply taking time to breathe can help manage stress
Eat for mental wellness: a balanced diet rich in omega-3s, leafy greens and whole foods support brain health
Avoid harmful substances: limiting alcohol, avoiding tobacco and steering clear of recreational drug use can significantly reduce the risk of developing a mental health condition.
