Update for May 11

Message from Helen Robbins-Meyer, Chief Administrative Officer

I’ve mentioned before in these mails that living with the restrictions of the stay-home orders, plus all the changes we’ve had at work, can cause a huge emotional strain. The situation can cause anxiety, stress and depression.

Those are normal reactions. That’s an important message we try to get out every May, which is Mental Health Month, but it’s really worth driving home this year. These are trying times, and it’s perfectly understandable if the circumstances are weighing on you or people you know.

Also part of that message is that being a normal reaction doesn’t mean you just live with it. Breaking a bone isn’t unusual, but of course you get it treated. Mental health is health. It’s not just acceptable, but encouraged to get help coping.

Early in this crisis, we realized mental health was a key element of our response, and our Behavioral Health Services put together resources for the public. Share those with anyone you know who may need them. The County Administration Center lighting will be green this week to help boost awareness of mental health.  

I’ve given reminders about our Employee Assistance Program in these updates, but it’s worth repeating. EAP makes free, confidential counseling available to all employees and their family members. Please take advantage of the program if you need it. Visit the website or call 888-777-6665. 

And continue to look out for each other. Your friends, your family, your co-workers. You don’t have to wait until there’s a sign someone’s having trouble. Check in, see how people are doing. We’re in this together, and we’ll get through by helping each other along.