By Jennifer Ethridge

In North Carolina in 2023, there were 9,618 emergency department visits due to opioid overdose. More than 450,000 adults and young adults in North Carolina have a serious mental illness. And in Rowan County in 2022, there were 92 opioid deaths. Those numbers are heartbreaking for our state and county. However, Nazareth is trying to make a difference in our community to help individuals and families.

Last year, we had over 7,000 therapy appointments. While we accept most insurances, Medicaid is the most common. With each appointment costing us $112 per visit, we are only reimbursed by Medicaid for about half of the cost. Regardless of their situation, we see them, treat them and support them. This is where Rowan County United Way steps in.

We would not be able to do what we do without the help and aid from Rowan County United Way. Because of this aid, we are able to provide services for our clients at reduced rates. We are grateful for their partnership and support.

Rates of depression, anxiety and other disorders continue to rise after the pandemic, and these can contribute to suicidal thoughts and actions. We want our community to know that we are here for them and that we care. Our clinicians are truly saving lives and altering futures for our clients by providing evidence-based treatment that we know is effective. When our clients do better, this impacts the county as a whole because these people are able to work, participate and give back to the community.

Rowan County United Way also assists us with our Day Treatment program. This program works with students who struggle in the traditional classroom setting. We work on academics, as well as behavioral and social skill development. The program is designed to be a short term (6-9 months) program to help teach students coping skills so that they can better manage their emotions and behaviors when they return to a regular school setting. This also helps the parents to not have to miss work when their child is suspended or in trouble at school.

We currently have 20 students in our program with the Rowan Salisbury schools. We have both elementary and middle school students. Nazareth is paid through Medicaid for all of the students, which ultimately does not fully cover the costs. We need the support of Rowan County United Way to supplement the difference so that we can make a positive impact in these students’ lives.

It takes a village, and we couldn’t do what we do without the help of many people and organizations. We are thankful for Rowan County United Way and their willingness to come along side of us to embrace lives and transform futures.

Ethridge is president/CEO and of Nazareth Child & Family Connection.