ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Zanesville Muskingum County Health Department is always planning for the future. Michelle Shroyer, the Community Health Planner, recently shared details about the new Community Health Improvement Plan for 2026-2028.
This plan focuses on four main areas:
1. Behavioral Health, which includes substance use and mental health.
2. Healthy Eating and Active Living, part of promoting better lifestyles.
3. Education and Literacy.
4. Housing and Insecurity.
Earlier this year, the health department conducted a community health assessment. The findings from this survey helped shape these priorities. Shroyer emphasized the importance of collecting input from locals. “We aimed for at least 350 responses to ensure a good sample,” she said.
The community health questionnaire gathers people’s concerns. These insights are then shared with the Healthier Muskingum County Network, a collaborative effort involving over 70 organizations. Together, they brainstorm solutions and set goals.
Mental health issues have been gaining more attention recently. According to a 2021 survey by the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. live with mental illness. This statistic highlights the critical need for the priorities identified in Zanesville.
Communities are becoming more engaged in health discussions. Social media platforms are filled with conversations about mental health resources and healthy living tips. In Zanesville, the focus on these areas reflects a broader trend across the country. People are increasingly aware of their health, seeking to make positive changes in their lives.
By working together, the health department and local organizations aim to create a healthier, more informed community, ultimately improving everyone’s quality of life.
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