The 2021-2022 Dare County Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) identified mental health as a key factor contributing to mortality rates in the community. The report highlighted suicide as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 20-34 years. In this session, presenters share research findings and data that emphasizes the significant role that cultural and contextual factors play in shaping mental health perceptions and access to care. Future efforts should focus on expanding mental health resources and support within the community.​

Presenters: ​

• Marie Lina Excellent, MD, MPH | UNC Department of Public Health Leadership and Practice​
• Sheila F. Davies, PhD | Deputy County Manager & Department of Health and Human Services Director, Dare County, NC​​
• LaTonia Clark Chalmers, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, NCBC | UNC School of Nursing
• Judy A. Schmidt, Ed.D., CRC, LCMHCA | UNC School of Medicine

This event is part of Serving NC Through Rural Community-Campus Partnerships, a conference hosted by UNC Rural as part of Carolina Engagement Week. To register for this session or for the full conference, go to: GO.UNC.EDU/SERVENC. The conference has both in-person and virtual options.