Month: May 2024

Mental Health Awareness Month: It’s Always Okay to Ask For Help

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holding hands to console

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being in our lives. Established in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize mental and physical health. This month is an opportunity to:

  • Increase awareness: Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and open conversations about mental well-being are essential. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to destigmatize mental health concerns and encourage open communication.

  • Provide resources: SAMHSA, along with countless other organizations, offers a vast network of resources for individuals and communities seeking mental health support.

  • Celebrate recovery: Recovery from mental illness is a real and achievable goal. Mental Health Awareness Month celebrates the resilience and strength of those living with mental health challenges.

You Are Not Alone

Mental Health focuses on the importance of seeking help and the message that it’s okay to not be okay. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, alcoholism, bullying, or any other mental health concern, we want you to know there is a vast network of support available.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Help is readily available: Numerous resources are available, from hotlines and online support groups to mental health professionals and community programs.

  • Seeking help is a sign of strength: Asking for help is not a weakness; it’s a demonstration of courage and a commitment to your well-being.

  • Recovery is possible: With the right support system and resources, recovery from mental illness is a real possibility.

Taking Action on Mental Health 

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we encourage you to:

  • Educate yourself: Learn about mental health conditions, available resources, and ways to promote mental well-being.

  • Talk openly: Have conversations with friends, family, and colleagues about mental health. Open communication can foster understanding and support.

  • Seek help if needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling. A mental health professional can provide invaluable support and guidance.

  • Support others: Encourage those you know who may be struggling to seek help. Let them know they are not alone.

By working together, we can create a society where mental health is valued and prioritized. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and help is always available.

For Immediate Support:

Let’s make mental health a priority every month, not just in May.

Suicide Prevention Resources from Uncas Health District

Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out — But Let’s Keep Safety in Sight

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mom applying sunscreen to child

As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, many of us look forward to the joys of summer – spending time outdoors with loved ones, engaging in physical activity, and soaking up the sunshine. However, it’s important to remember that prolonged sun exposure can pose significant health risks.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major contributor to skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States. The American Academy of Dermatology Association estimates that approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. UV radiation can also lead to premature aging, cataracts, and other health problems.

Public health professionals strongly advocate for sun safety practices to minimize these risks and ensure a healthy summer for everyone.

Here are some key recommendations:

  • Sunscreen Application: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is essential. Apply generously to all exposed skin 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating.

  • Seek Shade, Especially Midday: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later hours, or utilize shade provided by trees, umbrellas, or pop-up tents.

  • Protective Clothing: Sun-protective clothing offers an effective barrier against UV rays. Look for tightly woven fabrics with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. Wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, ears, and neck are also recommended.

  • Hydration and Sun Safety Go Hand-in-Hand: Sun exposure increases the risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can worsen dehydration.

  • Be Aware of Individual Risk Factors: Individuals with fair skin, a history of sunburn, or a family history of skin cancer are at a higher risk for sun damage. These individuals should be particularly vigilant about sun safety measures.

By incorporating these practices into your summer routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of sun-related health problems and enjoy the outdoors safely. Public health professionals are committed to promoting sun safety awareness and encourage everyone to make informed choices to protect themselves and their families.

Get Tested: Free Hepatitis C Testing Day on May 17

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HepC-testing

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, and the Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team is on a mission to raise awareness and increase testing for Hepatitis C. We’re hosting a free Hepatitis C Testing Day on Friday, May 17th, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at St. Vincent DePaul Place in Norwich.

Hepatitis C is a liver infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. The good news? Hepatitis C is curable in most cases, especially when detected early.

Why Get Tested?

Many people with Hepatitis C don’t experience any symptoms for years, which is why getting tested is crucial. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, preventing serious health complications like cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer.

Hepatitis C Testing Day at St. Vincent DePaul Place

Our Mobile Health Team will be on-site at St. Vincent DePaul Place, offering free and confidential Hepatitis C testing. The process is quick and easy, with results available in minutes.

Join us on May 17th and take control of your health! Getting tested is a simple step towards a healthier future.

Help us raise awareness about Hepatitis C by sharing this blog post with your friends and family. Encourage them to learn more about the disease and the importance of getting tested.

National Fentanyl Awareness Day — Education Can Save Lives

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Fentanyl awareness day

May 7th marks the third annual National Fentanyl Awareness Day — established by families who tragically lost loved ones to fentanyl overdoses. It serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers of this powerful synthetic opioid and its devastating impact on communities across the United States.

Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It’s increasingly being laced into other drugs without the user’s knowledge, making overdoses a terrifying possibility.

National Fentanyl Awareness Day is about education. By raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, we can empower ourselves and others to make informed decisions and take steps to stay safe. Here are some ways you can participate:

  • Share information: Spread the word about fentanyl on social media using hashtags like #NationalFentanylAwarenessDay.
  • Educate yourself: Learn about the signs and symptoms of a fentanyl overdose.
  • Support resources: Advocate for increased access to harm reduction resources like naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.

By raising awareness and promoting education, we can help save lives. Visit the National Fentanyl Awareness Day website (https://www.fentanylawarenessday.org/) to learn more and get involved.

Food Handler Certification Course — June 10th

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Ledge Light Health District is offering a ServSafe Certified Food Protection Manager Course on Monday, June 10th, 2024, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The Place for CommUNITY (74 Garfield Avenue, New London, CT) will host the class. Seating is limited, so register early to secure your spot!

The cost of $175.00 includes your course book and exam.

Registration Required By June 4th

  • Call the Ledge Light Health District at 860-448-4882 or email tdotaylor@llhd.org
  • Pick up your course book at 216 Broad Street, New London by Tuesday, June 4th.

Important Notes

  • The course is taught in English, but exams are available in other languages.
  • Translators can be present during the course only.
  • Special accommodations may be available; inquire at registration.

More Information/Registration Form

Hepatitis Awareness Month: Get Tested. Get Treated. Get Cured. 

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Hepatitis Awareness Month

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, an opportunity to talk about a serious liver disease and to empower the community to take control of their health. It’s also a call to action for those over 18 to Get Tested. Get Treated. Get Cured.

According to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Hepatitis C is curable in more than 95% of cases. Early detection and timely treatment are key to preventing liver damage and further spread. That’s why Uncas Health District is highlighting the importance of Hep-C testing.

About Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It’s important to understand the different forms:

  • Acute Hepatitis C: This is the short-term form of the disease. Many people experience no symptoms or mild flu-like symptoms that go unnoticed. Early detection is crucial, as some people can fight off the virus naturally.
  • Chronic Hepatitis C: If left untreated, acute Hepatitis C can progress to chronic Hepatitis C. This is a long-term infection that can damage the liver over time, potentially leading to cirrhosis (scarring) or even liver failure.

Who should get tested for Hep-C?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends Hepatitis C testing for everyone over the age of 18. Certain factors put you at higher risk, including:

  • Sharing needles or syringes with others
  • Having a history of blood transfusions before 1992
  • Having tattoos or piercings done with unsterile equipment
  • Having unprotected sex with someone who has Hepatitis C

Don’t wait for symptoms of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The best way to know your status is to get tested. The good news? Hepatitis C is now highly curable with safe and effective medications. Early detection is key to preventing serious liver damage and getting the treatment you need to live a healthy life.

Get tested for Hep-C at Uncas Health District

Join us in raising awareness during Hepatitis C Awareness Month! Here’s how you can get involved:

  • National Hepatitis Testing Day: On May 17th, Uncas Health District will offer free Hepatitis C testing at St. Vincent dePaul Place in Norwich from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
  • Mobile Health Team: We also offer testing through our Mobile Health Team, which brings vital services directly to communities throughout Uncas Health District.

Talk to your Doctor about Hep-C

Schedule an appointment with your doctor and ask about getting tested for Hepatitis C. Getting tested is a simple step towards protecting your health and well-being. Together, let’s make Hepatitis C a thing of the past!

Uncas Health District: We’re here for you

For more information on Hepatitis C testing and prevention or when our Mobile Health Team will be in your area, please visit our website.

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