Board of Health Offers Tips for Improved Mental Health

Amato and Miller to work on microblading regulation

After approving minutes, the board accepted a late fee payment from Cristina Sanchez, of 11 Emily Rd., to renew a keeping of animals permit.

The town’s new public health specialist, Siobhan LaFreniere, gave a mental health presentation to recognize that May is mental health awareness month. LaFreniere recently joined the Tewksbury Health Department. She attended UMass Lowell and majored in Public Health with a minor in Informatics and Technology.

 “It’s imperative that we come together to shed light on a topic often shrouded in stigma and misconception,” said LaFreniere, adding that mental health is linked to physical health. 

As of 2022, about 23% of U.S. adults had a mental health condition — more than one in five — according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Those 18 to 25 had the highest prevalence. Common illnesses include schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorder and mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorders.

Causes may include trauma or a history of abuse, economic hardship, grief and loss, ongoing chronic medical conditions, biological factors or chemical imbalances in the brain or use of alcohol or drugs.  

“Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact,” she said. Tips include getting regular exercise — just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood — and eating healthy, regular meals.

“Stay hydrated, make sleep a priority,” she said. “Try a relaxing activity, explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation or breathing exercises. Focus on positivity and gratitude, and set goals and priorities.”

That includes saying no if you are overscheduled.

If you need help urgently, you can call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or go to the ER 24/7. Or,  check in with these community health services during normal business hours.

She also reminded residents of the resources available through the Tewksbury Police Department’s Behavioral Health Unit. Learn more about resources for issues including domestic violence, immigration, LGBTQ, housing, food and benefits and more here.

The presentation will be on the CARES Facebook page, and there are flyers available at Town Hall. Susan Amato asked if these materials are in the schools; LaFreniere will check on that.

Resident David Chou spoke in an unscheduled public comment section. Chou asked about longitudinal data on rates of mental illness over time. LaFreniere said agency data goes back to 2010. Chou suggested a connection between mental illness and noncommunicable illnesses such as diabetes and Alzheimers.

“In my opinion there’s a root cause,” he said. “If we’ve discovered a connection to a mental health condition, then we can attempt to address the symptoms.”

LaFreniere said she has not come across such info; Chou suggested a book by Dr. Georgia Ede called Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind.

While also not on the agenda, Chair Melissa Braga did a presentation on nutrition and mental health, given that the brain uses 20% of the body’s energy. She recommends eating whole grains, healthy fats and micronutrients slowly to avoid problems ranging from ADHD to schizophrenia and multiple sclerosis.

Tewksbury CARES
Braga asked for a volunteer for a BoH representative on the board of the Tewksbury CARES organization. George Ferdinand clarified that a BoH member must be on the board of CARES. Currently there is only a treasurer. 

Chris Janeczak volunteered and was confirmed unanimously.

BoH Goals
Braga asked for feedback on a new goals document prepared with Amato and approved by Town Manager Richard Montuori. 

Priorities include promoting public health education and awareness, creating a questionnaire for businesses and residents to gather feedback, promoting environmental health and safety, fostering collaborative partnerships and regulating and ensuring safety in personal care services. 

The full document will be released in the meeting minutes.

“I’m just so happy, seriously,” said Ferdinand. 

Luke Miller asked how goals might be added to or changed in the future. Braga said there is a process to put additions or adjustments in front of the board.

Amato suggested that as they dive into the goals the scope will expand.

“There’s always room for more,” she said. “I’m excited about having goals.”

Miller made a motion to adopt the goals, seconded by Amato. The vote was unanimous.

In her report, Shannon Gillis reminded residents of the Health Fair scheduled for June 7 at the Senior Center. It’s open to all residents. Learn more.

Braga said there were several food recalls in Massachusetts. The USDA maintains a list of recalls that can be sorted by state. Residents can sign up for email notices.

Next, Braga brought up a microblading regulation working group. Amato volunteered, as did Miller. They will come forward at the next meeting with a plan. Andover has an existing regulation that can act as a model.

The board adjourned at 6:50 p.m.