Reflection plays a vital role in mental health. It allows individuals to pause and evaluate their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Engaging in reflective practices, such as journaling or mindfulness meditation, can foster greater self-awareness and understanding.
At Health Solutions West, reflection is integral to our mission and operations. We continually evaluate our community connections, support, and effectiveness of our programs. Through reflection we can understand how to remain aligned with our goals and responsive to the needs of those we serve.
PEDAL FOR PREVENTION
In September, Health Solutions West Foundation presented the 5th annual Pedal for Prevention Suicide Prevention Awareness event which raised life-saving support at West Springs Hospital and the Psychiatric Emergency Department.
There was a wide variety of activities happening across our 10-county service area (and throughout Colorado) like hiking, biking, softball, walking, yoga, spin classes, and more!
Supporters included survivors and family members and friends of those who died by suicide. Many participated to raise awareness about this critical issue in their communities, and to support those struggling with suicide ideation.
The Foundation is grateful to presenting sponsor, Alpine Bank, and additional sponsors, FCI Constructors, Yoga V, and Holy Cross Energy, in addition to all the community partners that offered classes or activities throughout the Western Slope for participants. We greatly appreciate the continued support and participation with Colorado mental health improvement initiatives! We couldn’t do it without you!
TRUNK-OR-TREAT
Health Solutions West’s Trunk or Treat event on October 26 attracted an impressive crowd of 250-300 trick-or-treaters along with their families! This year saw a remarkable increase, with twice as many candy enthusiasts compared to our inaugural event in 2023. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as children and families ventured from creatively decorated vehicles, trunk to trunk, gathering an assortment of treats.
This event exemplifies a way to give back to our community, which has consistently supported West Springs Hospital and Health Solutions West through various challenges.
This year’s Trunk-or-Treat event was held in special memory of Jennifer Rivera-Linville.
MESA TALKS: FINDING HOPE
The Mesa Talks event in Grand Junction, held October 10-11, was a key gathering aimed at addressing mental health and substance abuse recovery. Hosted by Mesa County Behavioral Health at Colorado Mesa University, the summit brought together a diverse group of mental health professionals, first responders, medical staff, and community members for two days of insightful discussions, training sessions, and resource sharing.
SUD Treatment & Recovery Director Traci Harris and Glenwood Springs Withdrawal Management Program Coordinator Andre Gossweiler presented a new operations model that is being used at the medical withdrawal management program, which aims to enhance the efficiency and quality of treatment for patients undergoing treatment for substance use disorders. This innovative “Skateboard” model underscores Health Solutions West’s commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing mental health care.
Dr. David Conklin, Chief Medical Officer, and Amy Cooper, Chief Operating Officer, gave this same presentation at the Rocky Mountain Symposium on Addictive Disorders and Mental Health Corporations of America.
Learn more: Home | Finding Hope (findinghopemesacounty.com).
