This article discusses the findings of the 2023 Yampa Valley Behavioral Health Landscape Scan, a study commissioned by the Craig-Scheckman Family Foundation and UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center Foundation. The study aimed to explore the mental and behavioral health needs of specific populations in the Yampa Valley, including youth and young adults, the LGBTQ+ community in Moffat County, adult males working in traditional valley economies, and Latinx-identifying members of these groups. The research was coordinated by The Health Partnership of Northwest Colorado and led by End Grain Research and Evaluation.
Key Findings:
Gaps in Mental Health Services: The study identified gaps in mental health services, especially for specific groups like youth and young adults. There is a general lack of open and normalized perception around mental health, accompanied by stigma, making it challenging for individuals to seek help.
Stressors Due to Housing and Income Inequality: Housing and income inequality create profound life stressors in the community, leading to mental health concerns. The study revealed that these stressors limit the ability of community members to seek formal mental health assistance.
Community Expectations: Participants noted an “old school mentality” within the Yampa Valley, with community expectations that individuals should manage their mental health individually, adding to the stigma.
Youth Mental Health Support: Young people in the Yampa Valley expressed a need for ongoing learning opportunities to develop the tools to cope with mental health challenges. They also desire a school environment that offers confidential, student-centered, culturally aware, and easily accessible supports from elementary school onwards.
Needs of LGBTQ+ Community: The LGBTQ+ community in Moffat County can feel isolated and experience poor engagement with the formal mental health support system. This may lead them to avoid seeking the care they need.
Coping Mechanisms: Men working in traditional valley economies often lean on informal support networks, especially their wives, when facing life struggles. They also engage in outdoor recreation to cope with challenges.
Community Response:
The findings from the landscape scan have led to responses from various community organizations and schools. For example, Soroco School District officials are addressing the need for increased confidential counseling and access to trusted adults in their school system. They are implementing the 7 Mindsets program to help students develop skills for navigating mental health challenges.
Conclusion:
The Yampa Valley Behavioral Health Landscape Scan sheds light on the mental and behavioral health needs of different groups in the Yampa Valley. It highlights the importance of addressing stigma, providing accessible mental health support, and creating an environment where individuals can seek help without fear. The study serves as a valuable resource for community members, organizations, and policymakers to develop solutions that cater to the unique needs of the community.
