Mental health was identified as one of the top priorities in the 2022-24 Community Health Needs Assessment conducted by Sauk Prairie Healthcare.
In 2022, we collaborated with local partners on various mental health initiatives, including those focused on mental health awareness in the agricultural community, mental health first aid, and the development of a behavioral health program.
- We support the Farmer Angel Network, an organization that works to prevent suicide in agricultural communities through awareness, education, collaboration, and improved access to mental health care. Through conversations, the network strives to bring the community – especially farmers and their families – together to reduce the stigma of mental health. Sauk Prairie Healthcare has an employee actively involved with the network.
- Mental Health First Aid is a program designed to teach participants how to spot the signs of mental illness, as well as how to respond when identified. It also provides the tools and resources to assist those who need mental health support. All classes are fully funded with a grant from the Sauk Prairie Healthcare Foundation and are free of charge to those who participate. In 2022, Sauk Prairie Healthcare held six Mental Health First Aid classes.
- We are integrating behavioral health services into primary care to give patients quick access to mental health services. This effort includes coordination between primary care providers, case managers or behavioral health consultants, and mental health specialists (e.g., psychiatrists).