A look into how Alachua County tackles mental health deserts in rural communities
The inability to access mental health services due to location or income creates an area known as a mental health desert. It disproportionately affects rural areas of the county. Across the United States, nearly a fifth of counties have no psychologists, psychiatrists or counselors, according to ABC News.
Alachua County residents grapple with lack of Black therapists, stigma around mental health
The lack of professionals of color, combined with the existing stigma around seeking help in Black communities has led to a gap in mental health care in the county. Black mental health professionals and local residents wonder what can be done to provide Black individuals with the support and services needed.
Mental health worsens among transgender, non-binary college students
Roughly half of transgender and gender non-conforming UF student participants in a survey said depression impacted their academic performance, according to UF’s 2022 National College Health Assessment. About 59% cited anxiety as impacting their academic performance.
Taking a look into being an Alachua County crisis hotline volunteer
The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office received 421 mental health calls from Aug. 1 to Oct. 18, according to data from the sheriff’s department. About 75% of these calls were Baker Acts. Over a fifth of the calls were related to suicide attempts.
‘Even if I can’t take care of myself, I can take care of him’: Emotional support animals comfort UF students
ESAs, a disability accommodation protected under the Fair Housing Act, are a growing trend in the United States — especially on college campuses, where depression, anxiety and suicidality rates are at an all-time high. At UF, students can request a residence hall ESA through the Disability Resource Center with medical documentation from a physician.
Passing ordinances and balancing life: How local city and county commissioners take care of their mental health
City and county commissioners routinely have 10- to 12-hour work days. They will spend hours listening to presentations and public comments, as well as voting on changes to ordinances and resolutions. They are trying to make the best decisions for the community, all while making time for their families and themselves, Mayor Lauren Poe said — and the strain of the job can weigh on their mental health.
Gainesville therapist discusses benefits of art therapy for students struggling with mental health
Art therapy, a specialized form of creative therapy that can be done at home or with a professional, has become a solution recommended by numerous Gainesville therapists for mental health struggles such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and childhood trauma.
Gainesville companies support, empower LGBTQ+ residents with mental health resources
Despite the statistics and negative stigmas surrounding the community, LGBTQ+ people find strength and support in each other. Studies show that youth who participate in LGBTQ+ community programs have better mental health and long-term greater self esteem. Gainesville has many organizations and mental health programs catered to strengthening and empowering the LGBTQ+ community.
Gainesville’s top spots to de-stress, relax
Whether you’re seeking a unique spa treatment, a yoga session or a relaxing stroll in nature, here is a list of Gainesville’s outdoor spots and local businesses to de-stress and relax.
