Dauphin County Commissioners remind residents struggling with depression or  addiction that county services never take a holiday

Home More News Dauphin County Commissioners remind residents struggling with depression or  addiction that county services never take a holiday

HARRISBURG, PA (December 20, 2018) – The holiday season may represent “joy to the world” and “peace on earth” to many people, but for others, this season of light can provoke a time of profound darkness.  Those suffering from anxiety, depression, grief or addiction usually find the holidays to be a very lonely time, but the Dauphin County Commissioners remind area residents that they are not alone.

Help is available, now and throughout the year.

The commissioners noted that last year, 2.8 million people lost their lives -- the highest number of deaths ever recorded in a single year in the U.S, since the government started counting deaths more than a century ago.  The dramatic increase is primarily due to suicide, aging and the heroin and opioid crisis. 

In 2016, suicide rose to the second leading cause of death for ages 10 to 34, and the fourth leading cause for ages 35 to 54, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). From 2008 to 2015, however, it was the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the U.S. 

“These statistics are a wake-up call,’’ said Commissioner George P. Hartwick, III.  “We understand how hard it can be for someone in a deep valley to reach out and ask for help.  Recognizing that obstacle, we are here, ready to make the healing process as simple, supportive and convenient as we can.”

“If you or someone you know needs help, now is the time to seek treatment,” said board Chairman Jeff Haste.  “Talking to someone and accessing professional support can literally mean the difference between life and death.”

Dauphin County’s addiction and counseling services are available 24/7, county officials said.

“We are losing far too many Americans, too young, to conditions that are entirely preventable,” said Commissioner Mike Pries. “We have experts trained to help.’’

  • Those needing assistance who don’t have a family doctor or insurance, or aren’t sure about their coverage, can also contact Dauphin County’s Case Management Unit at 717-232-8761 or 1-866-820-3516. Walk-in hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday at the CMU offices, 1100 South Cameron Street, Harrisburg. https://www.cmu.cc/