Thurston County is ramping up its efforts to address mental health challenges as part of a broader focus on social well-being. With January recognized as Mental Wellness Month, the county is taking significant steps to combat loneliness, which was declared a public health crisis by local health authorities in December.
In alignment with the county’s commitment to mental health, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (TCPHSS) highlighted the importance of this time of year as an opportunity to improve mental well-being. “With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season behind us, January is a great time to reset and boost your mental well-being,” TCPHSS wrote in a social media post on January 1.
As part of this initiative, the Thurston County Board of Health (BOH) passed Resolution No. H-3-2024 on December 10, officially declaring loneliness an epidemic. This led to the creation of the “Social Connectedness & Prevention of Isolation” program, which aims to tackle the growing issue of isolation through public campaigns, resource evaluations, and strategies designed to build stronger social bonds within the community.
The urgency for these measures is underscored by recent data that sheds light on the growing levels of isolation among various groups in the county. The 2023 Healthy Youth Survey revealed troubling figures, with 34% of sixth graders reporting they had been bullied at school, and 14% of eighth graders saying they felt unsafe during school hours. These statistics highlight the interconnection between safety, isolation, and mental health, particularly among youth.
Adult isolation is also a significant concern. According to the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 13.3% of adults in Thurston County reported feeling isolated, a figure notably higher than the statewide average of 9.8%. Young adults were particularly affected, and 9.1% of residents reported rarely or never receiving social and emotional support—slightly below the statewide rate of 10.4%. Men were disproportionately affected by this lack of support.
Vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, single parents, and marginalized groups, are particularly at risk of social isolation. The county’s health authorities emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address the unique challenges faced by these groups.
Through this comprehensive approach, Thurston County is working to create a more connected community and to ensure that mental health and well-being are prioritized for all residents. The new initiatives aim to reduce isolation, foster inclusion, and provide crucial support for those most in need.
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