Marion County March 2020 Prevention Newsletter

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Health Promotion & Prevention Pieces

March 2020

Newsletter Welcome Spring 2019

 

We hope to increase communication with our many diverse partners within Marion County and in the community. Each quarter we highlight selected programs, share information about events & resources, and share ways you can be involved in healthy local activities.


What's in this Article


Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information

COVID-19

 

On Monday, March 16th, the Marion County Board of Commissioners declared an emergency in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The same recommendations that protect people from the cold and flu are also effective in preventing the spread of coronavirus. It is recommended that everyone take proper protective actions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, including:

  • Practicing proper handwashing techniques (suggestions in English / Spanish)
  • Not touching your face
  • Avoiding individuals who are sick
  • Staying home when you are sick
  • Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces frequently touched
  • Avoiding large gatherings and staying home as much as possible https://www.co.marion.or.us/pages/News.aspx?NewsID=553

 

If someone is afraid they may have the virus, they should call their healthcare provider. It is important to call before going to the doctor to prevent spreading the virus to others. If they do not have a primary care provider, they may contact an Emergency Department or Urgent Care facility.

 

For general information about the novel coronavirus:

Additional Resources:

 The following are reliable sources for information about the novel coronavirus.


Save the Date - Upcoming Events & Fun Activities

 

March 1-31, 2020

Problem Gambling Awareness Month

The Marion County Commissioners announced that March 2020 is Problem Gambing Awareness Month. This declaration enhances Marion County Health Promotion & Prevention ability to increase awareness. See the Article below outlining the efforts. 

Problem Gambling Awareness

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March 31, 2020 - Postponed

Gambling in Sight, Seeing Problem Gambling

Bridgeway Recovery Services and Marion County Health Promotion & Prevention host an event every March to increase awareness about Problem Gambling. This event will be postponed until further notice. The event is a great opportunity to learn more about Problem Gambling, and to show support for Responsible Gambling and getting help to those in need. We hope you will join us once the event is rescheduled!

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April 6-12, 2020

NPHW

 

When you see people in your community drinking clean water, breathing clean air, accessing affordable care, and using safe streets for all modes of transportation, you are seeing public health in action. In Marion County - as in many communities around the world - the work of public health is currently focused on preventing the spread of COVID-19.

 

Marion County Public Health Division is hard at work during the COVID-19 outbreak, adjusting from normal efforts to build community through connecting services, empowering residents, and focusing on prevention efforts during this unprecedented public health emergency. As National Public Health Week (NPHW) 2020 approaches, we remind all residents to remember the spirit of NPHW: that everyone deserves to live a long and healthy life in a safe environment. In times of normalcy and in the face of adversity, Marion County Public Health will continue to do what is needed to promote the health of our community.

  1. For Science- subscribe to the Oregon Health Authority’s Coronavirus update subscription to keep up to date with correct information 
  2. For Action- Practice social distance to support the health of vulnerable community members and those providing care
  3. For Health- Support yourself, loved ones, and the community while practicing preventative measures. 
  4. For Justice- Action today will determine the opportunities available for everyone in the future

For more information on National Public Health Week: go to www.nphw.org

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April 26, 2020 - Cancelled

Monster Cookie Bicycle Ride

Please note, if you were signed up for the Monster Cookie Bicycle Ride - it has been cancelled due to the Coronavirus. 

For more information, CLICK HERE.

Monster Cookie

Problem Gambling Awareness Month

 

Commissioners Proclaim March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Marion County

Salem, OR – 

On Wednesday, February 26th, the Marion County Board of Commissioners proclaimed March to be Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Marion County. The proclamation supports the goals of the Marion County Problem Gambling Prevention Program to raise awareness about the risks of problem gambling and help those struggling and their loved ones to find resources.

Problem Gambling Awareness

In Oregon, an estimated 2.6% of adults (83,800) have a gambling disorder, which is a clinically diagnosable condition. An additional 5.6% of adults (174,150) in Oregon are estimated to be at risk of developing a gambling disorder and showing signs of problem gambling, which include:

  1. Increasing bet sizes
  2. Gambling to escape problems
  3. Repeated unsuccessful attempts to stop
  4. Jeopardizing relationships in order to gamble

 

Resource

The result of problem gambling is estimated statewide to be $500 million, due to higher rates of bankruptcy, loss of relationships, criminal activity, loss of work productivity, and other mental and addiction challenges.

While there are many concerns about the risks of problem gambling in the community, there is still hope. Resources exist to prevent and treat problem gambling. The Marion County Problem Gambling Prevention Program asks gamblers and their loved ones to reflect on gambling habits, review available resources, and renew commitments to healthy habits. More information can be found at www.OPGR.org.

Renew

Problem Gambling Art Search Winners!

 

Each year, middle school students from around Marion County participate in the Problem Gambling Awareness Art Search Contest. Over 150 students from six different middle schools and a few home school students submitted artwork, almost twice as much as last year! The Top-20 were selected to determine Marion County's Top-5 local winners who will be submitted to the Oregon Health Authority for state recognition consideration. See below Marion County's Top-5 local winners!

 

"...can I get a drum roll from someone in the audience please..."

 

 

5th Place: 

5th Place Marion County Art Search Winner!

Artwork by Jordyn from Houck Middle School

 

4th Place: 

4th Place Marion County Art Search Winner!

Artwork by Jacob, a home school student in Marion County

 

3rd Place: 

3rd Place Marion County Art Search Winner!

Artwork by Taylor from Mt. Angel Middle School

 

2nd Place:

2nd Place Marion County Art Search Winner!

Artwork by Grady from Judson Middle School

 

1st Place: 

1st Place Marion County Art Search Winner!

Artwork by Emmanuel from Mt. Angel Middle School

 

Congratulations Marion County Winners! Each winner and school will get a poster of their students' artwork. If you would like a poster copy, please email us at MCHDPrevention@co.marion.or.us.


Problem Gambling Health Equity for All Spotlight

 

Health Equity for All: Problem Gambling Among Veterans & Active Duty Members

Each quarter, Marion County Health Promotion & Prevention will provide insight into a population that is increasingly susceptible to health inequities. The hope is to educate our various partners and frame an issue in population health in a positive way. See below this quarters segment of Health Equity for All - Problem Gambling & Veterans. 

 

Article Banner

This article was created using the following sources: www.ncpgambling.org/gap-act Gap Act Fact Sheet; www.ncpgambling.org/files/public/Military/DAV_Gambling.pdf; www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/55375/va-releases-new-findings-problem-gambling

 

Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects veterans and active duty service members and is commonly associated with for other serious conditions. It can have disastrous consequences for the veteran and his or her family.

The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that as many as 56,000 active duty members of the Armed Forces meet criteria for gambling disorder, and studies have shown that veterans have elevated rates of gambling problems—at least twice the rate of the general adult population.

In addition to causing financial and legal problems, it is also correlated with an increased rate of suicide attempts, behavioral health disorders, and other behavioral health conditions. Rates of depression among veterans with pathological gambling problems have been shown to be as high as 76%, and 40% of veterans seeking treatment for gambling reported suicide attempts. Additionally, up to one third of veterans in treatment for a substance abuse problem also have a significant gambling problem. These rates are higher than the general public seeking treatment for gambling disorders in Oregon. Therefore, prevalence of gambling disorder in the military and among veterans is an increased serious health and financial issue.

Veteran 1

Less than 10 percent of people with gambling problems seek help, due to the shame, stigma, and misunderstanding of gambling disorder. There is substantial evidence that disordered gambling, even in its most serious form, can be successfully treated, including among veterans with the disorder. Rates of success continue to climb as newer treatment approaches are developed and studied.

Veteran 2

For Veterans, the VA suggests veterans discuss their gambling habits with a health care provider. The VA resource locator (www.va.gov/find-locations) will help vets find a provider, and Coaching into Care (www.mirecc.va.gov/coaching) will help vets and loved ones find appropriate services. For active duty members and their families, the military offers various mental health services. Click here for details.

 

If you know of someone who gambles, have them #Reflect on gambling habits, find #Resources to get FREE help or gamble responsibly, and #Renew a commitment to gamble responsibly or get help. Resources in Oregon include www.OPGR.org or www.OregonLottery.org/play-responsibly.


Health Joke of the Season

It is important for us to de-stress and take a deep breath, relax, and laugh. We hope this helps brighten up your day! 

 

WHO joke

Getting Active this Spring

Reminder to Stay Active & Get Plenty of Rest

With the time change, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to catch up on sleep. Rather than sitting most of the day, take time to get quality sleep and don’t replace rest with sedentary behavior. Being well rested allows for your body to engage safely in the recommended 150 mins of physical activity each week. Aim to decrease your sedentary behavior (not a substitute for sleep) and increase your activity. Even small burst of activity can make a big difference!

 

Active Living Chart
Chart Source

 

Marion County Parks

Looking for suggestions to move this spring while practicing social distancing? Check out each Marion County Park today to see what they offer. This could include parks that allow dogs, parks alongs rivers or streams, parks with hiking trails or horse-riding areas, or parks with picnic areas and play structures for kids. Go visit a local Marion County Park today and get moving!

Marion County Parks

Tobacco & Vaping News

E-Cigarette or Vaping Associated Lung Injury Update

 

As of March 12, 2020, there has been 23 EVALI cases reported in Oregon, two of which were fatal. Similar to other cases across the country reported by the Centers for Disease Control, Oregon cases include a mix of cannabis-only vaping, nicotine-only vaping, and a combination of both - according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). Vitamin E acetate, an additive to THC-containing e-cigarette or vaping products is strongly linked to EVALI. With investigations still ongoing, other chemicals or additive can not be ruled out as a concern linked to EVALI.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is still urging Oregonians to stop using all vaping products until state and federal officials have determined the cause of serious lung injuries and deaths linked to the use of both cannabis and nicotine vaping products. For more information and updates visit http://www.healthoregon.org/vaping

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Resources to Quit Vaping

Oregon Quit Line : The Oregon Quit Line is a free, telephone and web-based program that helps youth and adults quit vaping ​cannabis and nicotine. It offers free confidential, evidence-based counseling and materials. Callers 18 years and older can receive Nicotine Replacement Therapy in the form of patches or gum.

The Quit Line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

English: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or www.quitnow.net/oregon

Spanish: 1-855-DÉJELO-YA (1-855-335-35692) or www.quitnow.net/oregonsp

TTY: 1-877-777-6534

 

This is Quitting: This is Quitting powered by truth® is a free, confidential, 24-7 texting program for young people who vape. Text DITCHJUUL to 88709 or www.thisisquitting.com

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Marion County Health Connecting with Local Leaders

City Council Meeting

From left to right: Susan McLauchlin and Margaret McNamara with the Prevention Team speak to the Keizer City Council on February 18th, 2020

 

In February and March, the Marion County Health Promotion & Prevention Team presented to six local jurisdictions across Marion County: Silverton, Keizer, Woodburn, Jefferson, Stayton, and Mt Angel. The presentations were designed to raise awareness and highlight the Marion County Health Promotion and Prevention Programs. The Prevention Team also shared recent findings of local assessments:

Connecting with local leaders helps the Prevention Team understand the issues of most concern in each community and respond effectively to local needs. Regardless of community size or location, local City Councils and community leaders want to be engaged. Many community leaders volunteered to participate in short survey about tobacco and substance misuse prevention.

The Prevention Team looks forward to continued work with Marion County communities and provide resources, education about topics of interest, and technical assistance for health focused policy.  

 

Let us know if you would like to connect at MCHDPrevention@co.marion.or.us

TARA Questions

Good Behavior Game

Over the past year, the Prevention Team has been partnering with the Willamette Education Service District to host several trainings for local teachers on the PAX Good Behavior Game. The Good Behavior Game is a powerful evidence-base practice used daily in classrooms that helps children improve self-regulation and behavior. 

 

The short and long-term results from this program are numerous. Students in a PAX classroom have higher reading levels, reduced need for Special Education Service and higher graduation rates. Teachers report having a more peaceful classroom and less stress. But the results are not limited to academic success - there are positive health outcomes as well! Students that have been in PAX classrooms have fewer symptoms of depression, reduced bullying, decreased thoughts of suicide, and less substance abuse.  

 

To date, there have been over 100 school staff trained across 7 districts in Marion County.  Efforts to provide more training are ongoing.

 

Click here for more information

Good Behavior Game

Teachers at the Good Behavior Game training in Salem in October 2019

 

If you would like to know about Good Behavior Game, please email MCHDPrevention@co.marion.or.us!


Parent Corner: Preventing Opiod Misuse among High School Student-Athletes

 

A Playbook for Parents, Caregivers, and Educators

As you probably know, prescription opiod addiction – stemming from misuse – has hit the nation hard in recent years. An estimated 3.2 million Americans (over the age of 12) are currently misusing pain relievers. Among 12 to 25 year olds, 848,000 are current misusers.

Unfortunately, high school student-athletes can be especially vulnerable to prescription painkiller misuse. The pain relief, an eagerness to return to the field after injury, and the belief that such medication is “safe” because they’re prescribed by a doctor, are just a few reasons why.

 

Here are five tips – along with online resources – for parents and educators to help keep your student-athlete from misusing painkillers.

  1. Encourage the student athlete to rest and heal. Getting back on the court or field quickly is not the priority
  2. Know the signs of opiod misuse and recognize early signs before things get out of control
  3. Monitor the use of opiod medications if prescribed for your child
  4. Properly dispose of unused opiod medications
  5. Consider non-prescription options for treating pain

 

Click here for more online resources and the full story

Student-Athlete

Stress & Anxiety During Times of Uncertainty

Are you feeling additional stress, anxiety, depression, or fear during these times of uncertainty and crisis? Our Prevention Team wants to ensure you are connected to proper resources to help you get through tough times. 

For additional information on what to expect and ways to support yourself and loved ones during times of social distancing, quarantine, and isolation:

 

Click here for SAMHSA Tips

 

If you are in need of immediate or urgent assistance, contact the following:

  • Marion County Psychiatric Crisis Center: (503)585-4949
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800)273-8255

If you just need someone to talk to, the Oregon Warmline is available at (800)698-2392