Mental Health and Substance Use

Mental health and substance use are two concerns that are frequently mentioned during assessments. Many people who have mental health disorders also experience substance use disorders (SUD). Scroll to view measures associated with mental health and substance use.

Mental Health

Mental health is an essential part of overall health. Emotional, psychological, and social well-being are all included in mental health. Many factors contribute to mental health and wellness and can affect how people cope with stress, relate to others, and make choices.

Mental health resources are available in Rock County. Visit the Rock County's Credible Mind for self-care resources and local community resources available. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call, text, or message the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential support. Para Español, obtén ayuda aquí.

Substance Use Data

Substance abuse refers to the harmful or excessive use of drugs, alcohol, or medications. It involves using substances in a way that can lead to negative effects. These may include health problems, impaired functioning in daily life, relationship difficulties, or legal issues. Substance abuse often involves a pattern of behavior marked by continuous use despite the negative effects it has on a person’s life. In 2021, the Rock County Prevention Network and Rock County Human Services completed a county-wide assessment. The goals were to analyze substance use and related issues in Rock County and identify existing services and resources in substance use and recommendations for improvement. You can find the results of the report here.

Historical Spotlight on Health

A growing number of studies demonstrate a positive impact of same-sex marriage on the mental health of LGB¹ individuals. In 2014, Wisconsin became the 27th state to legalize same-sex marriage. While legal, LGBTQ+² individuals still witness national legislative bodies, courts, and media debate over their existence and the human rights they should receive. Due to this exposure, LGBTQ+ communities continue to struggle for validation and acceptance today, which can negatively impact their wellbeing and mental health.   

In the 2021 Rock County High School Youth Risk Behavior Survey, LGBT³ youth were more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers. Additionally, 39% of LGBT youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year compared to 10% of straight and cisgender students.⁵ Schools in Rock County have student groups that can support LGBTQ+ youth find safe places and allies within their peers such as the Gay Straight Alliance. For adults, there are social associations such as Rock County LGBTQ+ Committee, Yellow Brick Road Organization, Greater Evansville ROOTS, and Janesville Pride for LGBTQ+ community members to find support, resources and validation through a support community. For those that struggle with acceptance or mental health, visit the CredibleMind website for resources created specifically for the LGBTQ+ community.

  1. LGB: Lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals   
  2. LGBTQ+: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more identities under the LGBTQ+ umbrella 
  3. LGBT: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals 
  4. The variations of acronyms to explain the community group reflects the usage in a specific set of data or research. LGBTQ+ is the standard acronym that Healthy Rock will use.  
  5. Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Youth Risk and Behavior Survey (2021). https://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/yrbs/online