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Tackling Mental Health Together

Establishing the West Central Florida Mental Wellness Coalition Recognizing the record number of suicide rates, substance use and opioid deaths, nearly 30 local organizations have joined forces to develop a regional mental health initiative. On June 20, BayCare CEO and President Tommy Inzina and participating leaders from other hospitals, behavioral health providers, law enforcement, government…
Working Like a Dog

Reading with Bonnie the Therapy Dog by RACHEL CHRISTIAN Cassandra Banning and Bonnie, her 10-year-old shih tzu therapy dog, have been bringing joy and happiness to people in the Plant City area for almost six years. The pair can be spotted across town visiting nursing homes, hospitals, and even Bruton Memorial Library. Unlike service animals…
Taking Action

State Mandate Calls for Mental Health Education in Florida Schools by MARY TOOTHMAN The State Board of Education has voted to approve a new mandate that calls for specific mental health lessons to be given to students in grades six through 12. The focus will be on awareness, prevention, and reducing stigma. At least…

Editor’s Dose: If you take nothing else away from Amanda’s story, remember these three things

IF YOU’VE READ the fitness story in this edition of Central Florida Health News, then read on. If you haven’t, then stop right here, click back to http://bit.ly/2jmLtAE, and return to this when you’re done. There are a few key points that— no matter what your New Year’s resolution is — you can apply from…
Word of Mouth: Resolving to be better about dental care

YOU’VE LIKELY MADE resolutions to change bad habits when it comes to diet and exercise, but have you made resolutions to break bad habits when it comes to your teeth? Keeping your mouth and teeth healthy should be as important as keeping the rest of your body healthy. Damage to your teeth can be painful,…
Senior Care: Signs of the season to watch for

THE HOLIDAYS are a joyous time when we visit senior family members who we might not see on a regular basis. For many children and grandchildren, however, it’s also a time when we might begin to see signs that our senior loved one is growing less able to care for herself, or live safely at…