Sometimes it takes a little help to maintain
independent living. There are two units in the Anoka County
Community Social Services and Mental Health Department that focus on
helping two populations of residents: adults with mental health
concerns and senior citizens. A recent update published by the
Department shows both units are making a tremendous impact by
reaching out to those in need.
In the Adult Mental Health
Stabilization and Triage Team, the goal is to help people resolve
issues quickly and effectively in order to prevent hospitalization
and/or commitment. Service is time-limited and provided to voluntary
clients. Staff focus on rapid response and try to resolve needs as
quickly as possible, usually between one to 45 days. The first
meeting with a client usually occurs before a person is discharged
from the hospital or other community placement. County staff can
provide assistance with housing, access to medications, obtaining
financial assistance, and information on health care benefits.
Since the service began in September of 2006, more
than 800 clients have been served.
The result is a better quality of life, according
to D.J. Moser, chair of the Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka
County, a nonprofit organization comprised of consumers, service
providers and community leaders.
“Mental health is as important as
physical health,” Moser said. “When we focus on
helping people live the most productive life possible, we all
benefit.”
The mission of the Mental Wellness Campaign for
Anoka County is to promote increased public awareness, understanding
and acceptance of mental health care. During the month of May, which
is nationally and locally recognized as Mental Health Month, the
Mental Wellness Campaign advanced this mission by giving
presentations and sponsoring displays.
There is a huge economic impact
associated with mental illness that impacts the entire community,
Moser told the Anoka County Board of Commissioners at a May board
meeting. For example, more than $150 billion in
lost productivity is experienced due to mental illnesses. Roughly 50
percent of sick days are for mental health reasons. And, nearly 50
percent of returning National Guard Troops have significant
psychological symptoms.
“Recovery offers hope,” said Anoka County
Commissioner Rhonda Sivarajah, chair of the county’s human services
committee. Fully 70-90 percent of people with mental illnesses
recover with proper care, she said.
To find out more about the Adult Mental Health
Stabilization and Triage Team, call 763-422-7326. To find out more
about the Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka County, call
763-422-7007.
THOUSANDS OF CALLS RECEIVED FOR SENIOR SERVICES
The Senior Services Unit in Anoka
County’s Community Social Services and Mental Health Department has
seen a 60 percent increase in the number of requests for services in
the past few years, according to the recent
update published by the department.
In 2005, about 2,600 requests for
service were received; in 2007, nearly 4,500 requests were made.
In addition to an increasing senior population, there are
other reasons the number of requests are on the rise, according to
Anoka County Commissioner Rhonda Sivarajah.
“Chronic conditions, lack of support and financial
difficulty all impact a person’s ability to care for themselves,”
Commissioner Sivarajah said. “Preventative care, early intervention,
education, and timely referrals to community services can stop many
of these issues before they become overpowering.”
The primary goal for staff in the Senior Services
Unit is to help ensure successful community living for senior
residents. Assistance can include phone consultation, resource
referral, family education, and service coordination. Staff work
closely with community agencies. Sometimes, interventions play a
significant role in protecting the elderly from abuse and neglect.
Other times, a simple referral can make it possible for a senior to
stay in their home.
It is estimated that more than 44,000 people age
60 or older make their home in Anoka County. For more information on
senior services, call 763-422-7070.
Living independent is a goal for most people,
according to Bill Pinsonnault, director of the Anoka County
Community Social Services and Mental Health Department.
“Unfortunately, many people run into physical,
emotional or financial complications,” Pinsonnault said. “When that
happens, we’re here as a resource.”
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page last updated -
06/27/2008
