Our Community: Paint Valley ADAMH Board

“ADAM-H” is what we call the Paint Valley Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board, who focus on helping residents of Fayette, Highland, Pickaway, Pike and Ross Counties in southern Ohio, deal with issues surrounding addiction and mental health issues.

Formed in 1967, ADAMH’s mission is to ensure the availability of community-based alcohol, drug addiction and mental health services. The ADAMH Board does not directly provide services, but contracts with a network of public and private health care agencies to treat persons in need.

This from their website: 

The Paint Valley ADAMH Board ensures that individuals and families affected by mental illness and/or addiction have access to high-quality recovery oriented system of care. Through strong community partnerships, the Paint Valley ADAMH Board will continue to lead and advance efforts to ensure our communities are healthy, safe, and drug-free while assuring accountability and effectiveness in your care.

Why is this Important?

Combating such sensitive issues as these is crucial in our region as Southern Ohio is no stranger to addiction issues. It has been taxing our community for decades, contributing to crime, poverty, abuse and the overall degredation of life in our area.

Offering treatment solutions can be of benefit in the following ways:

• Improved Overall Health: Mental health and addiction issues can manifest in physical ways, such as insomnia, digestive problems, and a weakened immune system. Treatment addresses these underlying issues, leading to better physical health.
• Enhanced Relationships: Addiction and mental health struggles can strain relationships with family, friends, and partners. Treatment can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and communication skills, improving their relationships.
• Increased Productivity and Success: Mental health and addiction issues can make it difficult to focus, be productive, and succeed in work or school. Treatment can help individuals regain their focus and motivation, leading to greater success.
• Reduced Risk of Self-Harm and Suicide: Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can increase the risk of self-harm and suicide. Treatment provides individuals with the tools and support they need to manage their emotions and reduce these risks.
• Prevention of Relapse: Addiction treatment often includes relapse prevention strategies, which help individuals identify triggers and develop coping mechanisms to avoid relapse.
• Breaking the Cycle: Untreated addiction and mental health issues can perpetuate a cycle of dysfunction and suffering, often affecting multiple generations. Seeking treatment can break this cycle and create a healthier future for individuals and their families.
• Improved Quality of Life: Ultimately, mental health treatment and addiction services can significantly improve an individual’s overall quality of life. By addressing the root causes of their struggles, individuals can experience greater happiness, fulfillment, and well-being.

We’re very proud of this organization, so much so Warren Law Firm Attorney Aaron McHenry serves on the board of ADAMH.

Southern Ohio at Particular Risk

Chillicothe Ohio, and its surrounding cities in Southern Ohio (like many rural parts of the US) face unique challenges regarding addiction and mental health:

• Stigma: Mental health and addiction often carry a strong stigma, especially in close-knit rural communities. This can prevent individuals from seeking help due to fear of judgment or shame.
• Limited Access to Services: Rural areas often have a shortage of mental health professionals and addiction treatment facilities. This can make it difficult for individuals to access the care they need, even if they are willing to seek help.
• Poverty and Economic Hardship: Poverty and unemployment can contribute to mental health and addiction issues. Economic hardship can also make it difficult for individuals to afford treatment, even if services are available.
• Isolation: Rural communities can be geographically isolated, which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and disconnection. This can be a risk factor for mental health and addiction issues.
• Lack of Transportation: Many rural areas lack public transportation, which can make it difficult for individuals to access services that are located far from their homes.
• Cultural Factors: Cultural norms and beliefs can sometimes discourage individuals from seeking help for mental health or addiction issues.

These are just some of the challenges that Southern Ohio faces in the area of addiction and mental health. It is important to remember that these challenges are not insurmountable. By working together, communities can overcome these obstacles and ensure that everyone has access to the care and support they need.

Check out a ton of “Reels” from ADAMH – short videos of people discussing their path to recovery, very inspiring!

How to find help?

If you or someone you know needs help you can call the ADAMH hotline from the following counties: Fayette: 740-335-7155 | Highland: 937-393-9904 | Pickaway: 740-477-2579 | Pike: 740-947-2147 | Ross: 740-773-4357

You can also reach out to our lead attorney Aaron McHenry. Fill out our contact form and he’ll get right back to you. As mentioned, he serves on their board and is passionate about helping his community overcome these challenges, so reach out if you are in need.