Mental Health & Recovery Board Update

The RESOURCE • May 2022

A publication to increase awareness of mental health and substance use disorder issues in our community.

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Celebrating Families Healing through Recovery

Families are on the road to healing through family meals, guided discussions, and building resilience together through Celebrating Families, a new program offered by Children’s Advantage in Ravenna. The program is unique in that it includes every member of the family to help strengthen recovery, break the cycle of addiction, and increase successful family reunification. Read more

Crisis Intervention Team Training Spring Class

Police officers, first responders, and victims’ advocates recently completed the crisis intervention team (CIT) training coordinated by the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County.

The CIT program trains officers and others to handle incidents involving people who have a mental illness, to manage crisis situations for the safety of everyone involved, and to learn about mental illness and substance use disorders. Read more.

Awareness for Alcohol Use Problems & Treatments

Alcohol is the most used substance by both youth and adults in the U.S. The consequences of drinking can affect everyone and poses enormous health and safety risks.

While some adults may be able to enjoy an occasional glass of wine or mixed drink at home, drinking too much can cause significant short and long-term health problems. This includes a weakened immune system, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, digestive problems, and even types of cancer.

Binge drinking and heavy alcohol use are problematic. Some indicators of risky or excessive use include drinking more or longer than you intend, not being able to cut down or stop drinking when you want, finding that drinking often interferes with daily activities, loved ones have made comments about your drinking, and more.

Ways to Monitor Alcohol Use

Set a daily and weekly drinking limit. Write down your limit and keep it with you
Pace your drinking. Have no more than one standard drink per hour
Record how much you drink each day
Avoid situations and triggers that cause you to drink
Ask a friend who does not drink to help you stay within your limit
Speak with your doctor and/or seek treatment for your alcohol use

If you or a friend is struggling and need additional support and resources call our local addiction helpline at
330-678-3006.

May is Mental Health Month

People often focus much more on physical health than mental health, but both are equally important. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, as well as helping determine how we handle stress, relationships, and make choices. Mental health is important for all ages and can impact every area of our lives. Join us in fighting the stigma and supporting mental health.