The global pandemic, COVID-19, has rendered unprecedented havoc around the world in the last 15 months.  While many lives have been lost and touched during this time, many have been equally impacted by the aftermath of mental stability.  Researchers and mental health professionals can not determine the damage from this and other traumas suffered over the course of this period but are aware the work to repair our mental state of mind will be ongoing for a long time.

Dr. LeChrista M. Finn, long-time public health professional, worked with community partners and community members early on in the pandemic to provide timely and accurate information about staying safe, staying put and making sound decisions.  She also worked with them one-on-one to address mental health issues impacting individuals collectively.  Educational and informational resources were provided to county staff to address similar issues expressed by their constituents.  "Toxic Stress and Trauma"was one of the areas most identified as an opportunity to share information.  As a result, Dr. Finn provided a training and materials for use to address personal and professional mental health issues experienced during this time.  The information was not only timely and relevant but pertinent for helping others to stay mentally strong.