Community Wellness Program ready to help you thrive

“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” – Glenn Close

||| BY MEGAN EHRMANTRAUT for ORCAS COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER |||

What is “Mental Health” and who does it affect? Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Maintaining positive mental health and treating mental health conditions is crucial in today’s world, as that influences many aspects of our lives. Mental well-being empowers us to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and make informed decisions.

The Orcas Community Resource Center (OCRC) offers help to those struggling with mental health. Many of the services we offer are linked to supporting mental well-being. Stress in itself is trauma and if basic needs aren’t met, that can negatively affect a person’s quality of life.

Finding the right person to talk to can be overwhelming. OCRC makes sure islanders are not alone when searching for a therapist who best suits their needs. Staff can determine what options are available, provide a list of contracted therapists, and check insurance policies. Individuals may qualify for our Community Wellness Program (CWP). Through this program, clients are matched with a therapist. If it’s an amicable fit, up to 14 sessions are available and subsidized by OCRC through the county. Co-pays range $10 to $40 per visit, based on income level and household size. Participants must be over age 18. We can refer to people who specialize in youth counseling for younger residents so don’t let that stop anyone from reaching out!

There are currently 14 islanders enrolled and receiving therapy through the Community Wellness Program. An OCRC client recently shared, “Thank you – the Community Wellness Program is awesome! It has given me the ability to receive therapy at an affordable cost, helping to better my quality of life. I wish more people had access to this benefit – it would help them thrive.”

How can you help? Spread the word. Many people don’t even know these types of programs exist. If you are a therapist on Orcas Island, join our Community Wellness Program! Get rid of the stigma – talk to your friends and neighbors about mental health. Ask the important questions – Are you feeling overwhelmed or alone? Who do you have in your corner? Don’t wait. If you or someone you care about needs help, please contact us. OCRC is a dedicated group of caring, real community members you can talk to in a world that is becoming more virtual.

If you are interested in learning more about the Community Wellness Program, contact the Resource Center at 360-376-3184, e-mail info@orcascrc.org or visit in person at 374 North Beach Rd. in Eastsound. Office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm, Tuesday & Thursday 10:00am – 4:00pm. OCRC’s client intake form can be completed online at www.orcascrc.org under the “Need Help?” tab.