Small steps bring a veteran closer to his family

U.S. Army Veteran Bill Seelaus (right) performs Tai Chi with instructor Ellen Barnes (left), Recreation Therapist, on April 11 at the Coatesville VA Medical Center. This beginner Tai Chi for Arthritis class is part of his personal health care plan developed using the Whole Health model of care. COATESVILLE –  U.S. Army Veteran, Bill Seelaus, strengthens his mindfulness and awareness, tenants...

Chesco set to activate 988 mental health crisis line

Beginning Saturday, July 16, Chester County is joining with communities across the nation, introducing “988” as the direct phone connection support for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress. Chester County sees the implementation of the new 988 call option as a first step towards a transformed crisis care system and is seeking feedback through two online surveys to better inform the...

DASD is visited by the voice of the Philadelphia Eagles, Merrill Reese

Philadelphia Eagles radio star, Merrill Reese, talks about mental health and diversity with DASD teachers and staff. DOWNINGTOWN — On November 2, Downingtown Area School District (DASD) was visited by famous Philadelphian, Merrill Reese, during its annual Learning Summit. Merrill Reese is the play-by-play radio host who has announced for the Philadelphia Eagles on SportsRadio 94.1 WIP-FM since 1977....

County launches Teen Talk Line to aid mental health and wellness

WEST CHESTER — Chester County teens now have a new tool for mental health and wellness. A Teen Talk Line, targeting 12 to 18 year-olds, is now taking calls and texts to support young people who are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, sad, isolated, or confused. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that young people may be more vulnerable to stress and developing mental health conditions, such...

Commissioners honor WCU for mental health efforts

Terence Farrell, Commissioner; Tracy Behringer, Outreach, County Mental Health/Intellectual & Development Disabilities (MH/IDD) Office; Candy Craig, Deputy Administrator, MH; Leanne Valentine, WCU, Mental Health Services; Michelle Kichline, Commissioner; Amanda Blue, Outreach Manager, WCU, College of Health Sciences; Linda Cox, Administrator, MH/IDD; Kathi Cozzone, Commissioner. WEST CHESTER —...

Proposals sought for mental health/drug addiction assistance

COATESVILLE — The Coatesville Area Youth Philanthropy Program (CAYPP) of the Brandywine Health Foundation announced Monday that they are requesting proposals from organizations dedicated to providing mental health and/or substance use programs that treat individuals in a holistic and trauma-informed manner.

Op/Ed: The wrong people are in jail

By Kathi Cozzone, Chester County Commissioner Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone If your child or spouse or parent had a mental illness, addiction or developmental disability, would you want them in jail or somewhere that could help them get better? County jails and taxpayers dollars are increasingly being used to detain pre-trial offenders and house inmates who suffer from such issues; the...

County’s 1st Crisis Intervention Team class graduates

All 28 graduates from Chester County’s first Crisis Intervention Team training class, along with trainers and supporters. WEST CHESTER — Twenty-eight local law enforcement officers graduated from Chester County’s first Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training class on Friday, April 28 at the West Goshen municipal building. The officers completed the intensive, 40-hour training, which has been...

Chester Co. observes Mental Health Month in May

WEST CHESTER — Each May, Chester County recognizes National Mental Health Awareness Month with activities aimed at increasing the public’s awareness and understanding about mental health and recovery. This year, Chester County’s Department of Mental Health/Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (MH/IDD) is collaborating with stakeholders throughout the area to offer a wide range of opportunities...