Resilience Grows Here (RGH) started as a veteran's mental health initiative of the Farmington Valley Health District almost ten years ago. It has always been our goal to expand the lessons and advocacy of RGH into the greater community, particularly in light of the growing mental health crisis in our communities. This fall, we are thrilled to be able to do just that with the launch of the RGH Curriculum for schools.

What is RGH?

RGH consists of a series of 20 minute, easy-to-teach lessons covering topics from friendships and relationships to managing emotions, setting healthy boundaries, and more. The program focuses on building the resilient attributes that support good mental health. Lessons can be taught in any order and adapted to both middle school and high school, with plans to launch material for younger ages coming soon. The version of this curriculum piloted in our schools prior to the pandemic has already been recognized by the National Association of City and County Health Officials as the 2019 Emerging Best Practice in Public Health, and has had a positive impact on students and teachers alike.

Where is RGH being implemented?

Schools in our towns will have access to RGH lesson plans and videos starting this fall at no charge. We encourage other community organizations to reach out if they are interested in running classes at libraries, scout troops, churches, or other youth group settings.

This past year has been a busy one for the Farmington Valley Health District. Curious about what we do? This report covers everything from how many health promotion classes we ran to how many restaurants we inspected, and includes information on our Board, budget, notable achievements, a letter from the health director, and more.

According to the CDC, 48,000 Americans tragically lost their lives to suicide in 2021, while a staggering 12.3 million Americans seriously contemplated suicide in the same year. These numbers are not mere statistics; they represent individuals, families, friends, and communities deeply affected by the impact of suicide.

Suicide deaths are only a fraction of the problem. Millions of Americans each year seriously think about suicide, plan, or even attempt it. The ripple effects of suicide and suicide attempts are far-reaching, leaving an indelible mark on those left behind.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness of this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. We must recognize that discussing suicide isn't about magnifying despair, but rather, it's about increasing our connections with one another. It's about learning to ask tough questions, being attuned to signs of risk, and understanding that we possess the capacity to guide someone towards the help and resources they need.

The good news is that suicide IS preventable.

We all need to feel comfortable in knowing where to turn to get help if someone we know and care about is struggling. Here are some important things you can do to help break the silence about suicide:

1. Take a QPR Suicide Prevention Training – This 90-minute training gives you the tools to feel less frightened about asking someone if they are thinking about suicide and provides you with all the resources you need to assist that person in finding the qualified supportive help they need. See the FVHD website for dates of classes.
2. Stay connected to your friends and family – Reach out to friends and family members. Your support and care can be a lifeline for someone struggling.
3. Be ready – Familiarize yourself with crisis assistance numbers in case you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support.
4. Eradicate Stigma – Remember, struggling with suicidal thoughts does not indicate weakness or character flaws. A non-judgmental, empathetic connection is invaluable.

Crisis Resources:

In times of crisis, support is just a call or text away.

• 911: For immediate emergencies 
• 988: Call or text for mental health-related distress or to seek help for someone in crisis 
• 988lifeline.org: Chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline online if talking on the phone is uncomfortable 
• Text NAMI to 741-741: Connect to a free, trained crisis counselor 
• 1 (800) 273 – 8255: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 
• 1 (866) 251 2913: DMAS CT Military Support Program

Additional Information:

Suicide Prevention | Suicide | CDC

NIMH » Suicide Prevention (nih.gov)

Help Prevent Suicide | SAMHSA

National Suicide Prevention Week | AFSP

Resource Center - The Trevor Project

Despite the laws that have removed lead from gasoline, paints, and other products, children may still be exposed to lead in older housing, contaminated soils and water, or imported toys and products. Even very low levels of lead can have negative health impacts for children and their developing brains. Testing is easy and all children 9-35 months must be tested for lead once a year.

The journey of Global Handwashing Day began in 2008, initiated by the Global Public-Private Partnership for Handwashing (GPPPHW) with support from the United Nations. The goal was to foster a global culture of handwashing with soap, thereby reducing preventable diseases and saving lives. The date, October 15th, was chosen to coincide with the World Health Organization's (WHO) Hand Hygiene Day, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene in healthcare settings.

Why Do We Observe It?

Handwashing might seem like a simple and routine act, but its significance cannot be overstated. Every year, millions of lives are lost to illnesses that could have been prevented through proper handwashing. By washing your hands, you protect yourself and others from both respiratory and gastrointestinal illness, including illness that can pass through food. You should wash your hands after using the bathroom, before and after eating or smoking, before cooking and any time they are visibly soiled. Handwashing should be done for 20 seconds with soap and hot water. 

How Do We Help?

At the health department, our main mission is to protect and promote the health of the public. All food service establishments in the Farmington Valley must comply with the FDA food code, which outlines in detail proper handwashing requirements. Our sanitarians inspect every establishment to ensure that your food is kept safe. 

Handwashing is a critical part of protecting the public’s health. Remember, clean hands are healthy hands!  

Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can help stop germs from spreading from one person to another and in our communities—including your home, workplace, schools, and childcare facilities.

Follow these five steps every time:

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer.

In an emergency, you want your local health department, first responders, and government officials to know what they need to do and what part everyone plays. The best way to ensure that is to practice, practice, practice.

On June 9, several Farmington Valley Health District staff and first responders from Avon, Farmington and Simsbury participated in a regional public health simulated exercise focusing on an Anthrax attack. Anthrax is a potentially lethal infection that can be used in biological terror attacks. Be advised that we have no reason to suspect one is coming any time soon, but we want to be prepared to protect our communities if something were to happen unexpectedly.

This exercise drew approximately 50 individuals from all over the region representing municipalities, local health departments, and area hospitals. The main objectives of the exercise were to:

• Simulate existing regional plans for a potential Anthrax attack
• Establish regional and inter-agency communications for collaboration and coordination across regional agencies, and
• Assess the mental/behavioral health needs and resources if such an event were to occur.

A major strength of the exercise was a better understanding and working comfort with our partners. These partnerships were strengthened and fostered during our COVID response activities as well.

The major area for improvement was a need for additional training on the regional plans and not using acronyms. There has been significant turnover in staff within many local health departments, and many newer staff have not had opportunities to learn the regional role in emergencies or the plans which outline these roles and responsibilities. Future trainings will be conducted geared to these individuals.

FVHD will take these findings and the experience of this exercise and incorporate them into our local planning. In addition, the Region will be hosting another regional public health exercise in the fall of 2023 to enhance communication and partnerships.

Back to school season is here, just in time for Food Safety Education Month. 

Preparing school lunches can be a busy task, but keeping food safety in mind is paramount. Here are some guidelines to help you provide safe and healthy lunches for your children:

1. Cleanliness First: Before handling any food, make sure your hands, utensils, and work surfaces are clean and sanitized.
2. Temperature Control: Perishable foods like meats, dairy products, and sandwiches with mayonnaise must be kept cold to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Use an insulated lunch bag with ice packs to keep these items at a safe temperature.
3. Smart Packing: Opt for non-perishable items like whole fruits, granola bars, or trail mix for snacks. If you're packing perishable items, use an insulated container to maintain proper temperature.
4. Avoid Cross-Contamination: Prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and vegetables. Wash your hands and surfaces between handling different types of foods.
5. Allergen Awareness: Be mindful of any food allergies your child or their classmates might have. Avoid packing items that could trigger allergic reactions in others.
6. Hydration Matters: Pack a refillable water bottle to keep your child hydrated throughout the day. Remember to clean and sanitize the bottle regularly.

For those who rely on school cafeteria lunches, rest assured that your child's safety is a priority. Here's what schools and the Farmington Valley Health District are doing to maintain high food safety standards:

1. Safe Food Handling: School cafeteria staff undergo rigorous training in safe food handling practices, from food preparation to serving.
2. Regular Inspections: Our health department conducts routine inspections of school cafeterias to ensure they meet and exceed food safety standards.
3. Allergen Management: School cafeterias have protocols in place to prevent cross-contact with allergens and to accommodate students with dietary restrictions.
4. Temperature Monitoring: Cafeteria staff monitor food temperatures regularly to guarantee that hot foods are served hot and cold foods are kept appropriately chilled.

Ensuring your child's lunch is safe and wholesome is a collective effort between parents, schools, and our health department. By prioritizing food safety, we're not only nourishing young minds but also cultivating healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

September 18-22: Septic Safety Week!

As we embrace the changing seasons and the joys of maintaining a safe and comfortable home, it's the perfect time to shine a spotlight on an often overlooked but crucial aspect of household maintenance: septic systems. While household waste management may not be the most glamourous topic, it pays to know about your septic system before issues arise. 

The Lifeline of Your Home: Understanding Septic Systems

Septic systems play an essential role in treating household wastewater in areas not connected to municipal sewage systems. In Connecticut, approximately 40% of homes are served by septic systems. This is higher in the Farmington Valley. Properly maintained septic systems are key to preventing pollution, protecting public health, and maintaining a healthy environment.

Maintenance Frequency: Servicing, Inspection, and Replacement

1. Servicing: Regular pumping is a critical aspect of septic system maintenance. The frequency depends on factors like the tank size, household size, and water usage. On average, septic tanks should be pumped every 3 to 5 years to remove accumulated sludge and prevent clogs.
2. Inspection: A thorough inspection of your septic system should be conducted annually to identify any potential issues early on. This includes checking for leaks, assessing drain field health, and ensuring components like baffles and filters are functioning properly.
3. Replacement: With proper maintenance, a well-designed and properly cared-for septic system can last 20 to 40 years or more. However, factors like soil quality, usage, and system design can influence its lifespan. If your system is aging or showing signs of failure, it might be time to consider replacement.

What New Homeowners Should Know

For first-time homeowners, understanding your septic system is vital. Here are some key questions to ask and factors to consider:

1. Location and Design: Know the location of your septic system components, including the tank, drain field, and distribution box. Any property documents the Farmington Valley Health District has can be found on our website via the Property Document Search. 
2. Maintenance History: Inquire about the system's maintenance history and the last time it was serviced. This will help you establish a maintenance schedule.
3. Usage Guidelines: Learn about best practices for water conservation and waste disposal. Excessive water usage or improper waste disposal can strain your septic system. In addition, avoid flushing wipes (even those advertised as “flushable”), grease, chemical additives, and feminine hygiene products down the toilet or sinks. 
4. Professional Help: Establish a relationship with a reputable septic service professional. They can provide guidance on maintenance schedules, perform inspections, and address any issues. We maintain a list of septic installers in the area on our website.
5. Signs of Trouble: Be vigilant for warning signs of septic system problems, such as slow draining fixtures, foul odors, or soggy areas in your yard.

The Farmington Valley Health District’s Role

We're committed to supporting you in maintaining a safe and healthy home environment. Our septic system experts are available to provide guidance and answer any questions you may have to ensure your system operates efficiently and safeguards your health.

As we celebrate Septic Safety Week, let's take this opportunity to learn, ask questions, and ensure that our septic systems are well-maintained, contributing to a cleaner and healthier community for years to come.

50 Risks to Take with Your Kids

by Daisy Turnbull

Parenting in today’s world is fraught with warnings, hazards, judgement and near impossible expectations from an unattainable social media world. Some days, it can feel like we are failing our little ones at every turn if we do not provide them with the rigorous structure to turn them into child prodigies.

50 Risks to Take with Your Kids by Daisy Turnbull challenges us to have a little faith in the power of a skinned knee and muddy footprints. With a blend of storytelling and practical advice, Turnbull guides readers through the process of letting go of overprotection and embracing the power of play. Her book becomes a companion that empowers parents to trust in their children's natural instinct for adventure. It’s a heartfelt call to find balance in a world that sometimes pushes us towards extreme expectations.

Visiting Feelings

by Lauren Rubenstein, JD, PsyD and Shelly Hehenberger

For parents looking to expand upon the lessons of movies like Inside Out, Visiting Feelings is all about teaching young children to recognize and explore their emotions without judgement. Touching on concepts of mindfulness and emotional intelligence, this book invites children to think of their feelings as a visiting friend, and thus practice building insight, empathy, and resilience. 

The health department strives to prevent disease outbreaks and conditions that give rise to poor health, promote health programs and policies that support good health, and protect members of our community from health threats.