UC Counselor Warns Of Mental Health Gaps, Awareness
As the nation observes Mental Health Awareness Month, a local mental health expert said she is concerned with the lack of accessible, affordable mental health services in the Upper Cumberland. Counselor Denise Maynard said affordability and accessibility issues are “a huge problem.” Maynard said along with the stigma of seeking mental health treatment, the cost […]
Local Expert: Expect More Gambling Among College Men
With the number one quarterback in college football’s transfer portal dealing with a gambling addiction, a local addiction expert said she expects more cases. Volunteer Behavioral Health Senior Clinical Director Beth Tucker said the fast-paced, 24-hour nature of betting apps makes sports betting highly addictive. Tucker said mental health experts are monitoring widespread use of […]
Smith Wants Coordinated Approach To Physical, Mental Health
Julie Smith is transitioning into her new role as the School Coordinated Health Supervisor for the Putnam County Schools after working at Cookeville High School for nearly 25 years. Smith said her goal is holistic approach to physical and mental health and wellness support for students and staff of the system. Smith said when student’s […]
Former EMT Beautifies Livingston To Work Through Challenges
A Livingston man has the goal of pressure washing all of Livingston’s sidewalks for free, in an effort to better his own mental health. Michael Cummings is the owner a local pressure washing company and a former EMT. After leaving his career in emergency services a decade ago, he transitioned into disaster relief work before […]
911 Dispatchers Deal With Pressure Situations Every Day
911 dispatchers navigate mental and physical pressures while serving as the first point of contact for residents in crisis. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week gives all of us a chance to understand pressures. Putnam County 911 Assistant Director Josh Womack said the profession requires staff to maintain constant focus on providing aid during life-altering emergencies. […]
Free Mental Health Coming, Part Of New Tech Masters Program
Tennessee Tech will open a free outpatient mental health clinic this fall to address the shortage of care providers and eliminate financial barriers for residents across the Upper Cumberland. Tech Center for Addiction Prevention and Support Director Steven Seiler said the new facility will focus on brief therapy sessions for individuals struggling with mental health […]
Cookeville Rescue Mission Reflects On 50 Years Of Service
The Cookeville Rescue Mission plans to offer increased capacity and more services to provide additional resources for guests as the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary. Cookeville Rescue Mission Executive Director Will Roberts said the organization aims to collaborate with community partners to address the growing mental health needs of the people they serve. The mission […]
Local Group Hosting First Responder Mental Health Seminar
A White County group will focus on the mental health of first responders at its Mental Health, Faith, and Family Seminar this Saturday. Doyle Fire Captain Matthew Nuzzo said the small group was formed through Sparta Life Church. It provides a mental support group for first responders. Nuzzo said the job of being a first […]
Mental Struggles During Holiday Season Not Uncommon
The holidays are about fun and joy, but it is also common for people to struggle with unhappiness this time of year, especially after Christmas. Local Licensed Counselor Brittany Collins said mental health struggles are often seasonal depression. Collins said many things can contribute to seasonal depression, including pressure. “All the financial stress with gift […]
Therapist: Emotions And Impact Of 9/11 Attacks Still Strong
24 years after the 9/11 attacks, many people are still emotionally impacted by the weight and memories of that day. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Vickie Brown said it is natural that the sting has faded over time for some. But Brown said others tend to connect powerful emotions with negative events, which is why […]
