We’re proud to offer local programs to help you reduce stress, improve wellness, and prevent chronic disease.

Move Your Body With the Active Marion Project (AMP)

The Active Marion Project (AMP) helps you manage stress through movement, education, and community support. These programs make healthy habits and stress management simple and fun.

Step Challenges and the AMP 2 App

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to lower stress. To encourage Marion County to be more physically active, The Active Marion Project (AMP) created the AMP 2 app and uses friendly competition to encourage people to engage in physical activity in our communities. It automatically tracks your movement, allowing you to focus on walking rather than logging data. For every 100 steps you take, you earn a point, which can be redeemed for rewards through local partner businesses.

Free Workplace Wellness Assistance

AMP also supports local businesses with Free Workplace Wellness Assistance, helping employers create a culture of wellness through activity-based challenges, group health education, and incentive programs. Employers can use employee surveys to understand needs, implement health-promoting policies, provide point-of-decision prompts, and organize competitions and incentives through the AMP 2 app. By prioritizing wellness, companies help employees feel healthier, happier, and better equipped to manage stress on the job.

The Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP™)

Managing diabetes is about more than just diet and exercise, it’s also about managing stress. High stress levels can affect blood sugar, disrupt sleep, and make it harder to stick to healthy habits. That’s why AMP developed the Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP™) with tools to help participants manage stress alongside diabetes.

DEEP is an eight-week, science-backed curriculum offered for free to help those with prediabetes, diabetes, and their caregivers learn practical self-care skills, improve nutrition, increase physical activity, and develop strategies to reduce stress. The program also strengthens communication with healthcare providers and connects participants to community resources, creating a support network that eases anxiety and builds confidence in managing their condition.

By addressing stress as part of diabetes management, DEEP empowers participants to maintain better blood sugar control, prevent complications, and improve overall quality of life. The program’s emphasis on coping strategies, mindfulness, and healthy daily routines makes it a vital tool for both physical and mental wellness.

Build Skills and Access Resources With Community Home Project (CHP)

The Community Home Project (CHP) at Howard Academy offers free programs for families in Ocala, designed to reduce stress and improve overall wellness.

CHP provides:

• Fitness and nutrition classes, including cooking, diabetes education, and Eat Healthy-Be Active programs
• Medical and dental support, including healthcare navigation and referrals
• Employment assistance, from career coaching to resume help and job fairs
• Education programs, including youth tutoring, life-skills classes, GED, and continuing education

By combining fitness, nutrition, and education resources in one place, CHP helps families manage stress, improve health, and build long-term resilience.

Develop Healthy Habits Early With FANS

The Fitness and Nutrition in Schools (FANS) program helps Marion County children develop healthy habits that prevent obesity, diabetes, and stress. FANS partners with local schools to:

• Increase physical activity in PE and classrooms
• Promote healthy lifestyle choices and nutrition education
• Engage students in FANS Clubs for health awareness campaigns and taste tests

FANS empowers children and teens to make healthy choices that improve both physical and mental health.

Comprehensive Behavioral Health With Beacon Point

If you’re facing stress-related mental health or substance use challenges, Beacon Point offers integrated behavioral health care, recovery support, and primary medical care, regardless of insurance.

Beacon Point provides:

• Individual and group counseling
• 24/7 crisis response, peer support, detox, and medication-assisted treatment through SMA Healthcare
• Outpatient therapy via Lifestream
• Primary care through Heart of Florida Health Care

This holistic approach can help address stress, behavioral health, and wellness on one campus.

Connect To Local Resources With Healthy Ocala

The Healthy Ocala initiative is a community support directory offering Marion County a one-stop guide to local wellness services. Healthy Ocala connects people to behavioral health, substance abuse, recovery support, accessible health services, food and housing assistance, education, employment, youth programs, veterans services and senior resources.

Whether managing stress, seeking mental health support, or navigating life challenges, Healthy Ocala helps you find trusted providers and programs nearby.

Find Local Support To Help Manage Your Stress

Stress is a part of life, but Marion County has access to tools and support to manage it. Programs like AMP, DEEP, CHP, FANS, Beacon Point, and Healthy Ocala provide fitness, nutrition, education, mental health support, and workplace wellness resources for all ages.

This National Stress Awareness Month, take control of your health, reduce stress, and build resilience.

For more information, visit mchdt.org.

The post Stress Less and Live More With Local Resources To Support Your Health appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

This month, the Marion County Hospital District (MCHD) is proud to spotlight Vet Resource Center (VRC), a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to supporting veterans.

A Mission That Saves Lives

Under the leadership of President and Director Stephen Petty, Captain, U.S. Army, Retired, the VRC has launched a groundbreaking initiative to protect veterans from the long-term health effects of toxic exposures during service, such as burn pits and Agent Orange. With support from MCHD, VRC is bringing cutting-edge medical technology directly to veterans who need it most.

The Challenge: A Race Against Time

For many veterans who served in Southwest Asia from the Gulf War to recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the fight didn’t end when they returned home. Toxic exposures can trigger aggressive cancers that appear decades earlier than standard medical protocols anticipate.

Because routine screenings often start at age 40–50, younger veterans fall into a dangerous gap: they may feel healthy but harbor silent, fast-moving illnesses. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often advanced.

VRC’s mission is to detect these illnesses early, giving veterans a fighting chance through advanced early-warning testing.

How Our Partnership Makes a Difference

MCHD is proud to support VRC in overcoming the biggest barrier to early detection, cost.

Together, we are:

Funding Advanced Testing

Early-warning cancer detection kits, which typically cost nearly $1,000, are now provided free of charge to eligible veterans.

Expanding Outreach

By leveraging corporate partnerships, VRC can reach working-age veterans through onsite testing at local employers.

Ensuring Rapid Response

Veterans who test positive are connected immediately with high-level diagnostic care, eliminating months-long delays.

By the Numbers: Saving Lives in Marion County

Marion County is home to an estimated 50,000 veterans. Our combined outreach efforts include TV spots, newspaper ads, and dedicated volunteers, including a Command Sergeant Major coordinating local efforts.

Since launching the program:

• First Test Administered: Jan. 6
• Tests Completed: Nearly 250, with more scheduled
• Community Outreach: Over 2,500 individuals and 75 organizations engaged

A Life Saved

One early success story highlights the program’s impact: A veteran tested positive for early-stage pancreatic and bile duct cancer. Thanks to the test, the condition was caught at Stage 1, allowing for immediate treatment and a dramatically improved prognosis.

Looking Ahead

The Vet Resource Center continues to educate the community on the importance of early detection. Stephen Petty reminds veterans and civilians alike to listen to their bodies: Be aware of unexplained weight loss, persistent sores, or chronic coughs should never be ignored.

MCHD is honored to stand alongside VRC as they turn the tide against veteran cancer.
Are you a veteran in Marion County? Learn more about early detection kits or support the Vet Resource Center by visiting VRC’s website at vetresourcecenter.com.

The post Collaborator of the Month: Vet Resource Center appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

Made possible by the leadership of Ben Marciano, Mayor of Ocala, and the Marion County Hospital District, Healthy Ocala is a free, easy-to-navigate online directory created to connect residents of Marion County with trusted local resources in one centralized location.

Healthy Ocala is designed to make access to care more transparent, organized, and community-driven.

What Is Healthy Ocala?

Healthy Ocala serves as a comprehensive community resource hub for Marion County residents. It brings together a wide range of services into one searchable directory, making it easier to identify and connect with local support.

“Asking for help isn’t always easy. Sometimes you don’t even know where to start, especially when it’s for yourself or someone you care about. Finding the right resources can be overwhelming, confusing, and stressful,” said Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano.

“Healthy Ocala is a free, easy to navigate, online directory, designed for Marion County residents. It connects you to local resources, all in one place.”

As a free public resource, the directory connects residents to services including:

• Behavioral health counseling and therapy
• Substance use recovery programs and peer support
• Primary care providers and preventive health services
• Housing assistance and utility support
• Food pantries and meal programs
• Veteran services
• Family and youth support programs
• Senior support programs

By organizing these resources into clear categories, Healthy Ocala reduces barriers and strengthens coordination across the community.

Categories and Examples of Local Resources

Healthy Ocala includes a broad range of service categories that reflect the real needs of Marion County residents.

Behavioral Health and Substance Use Recovery

Access to licensed counseling providers, treatment programs, peer recovery support, and community-based mental health services.

Health Care and Preventive Services

Primary care clinics, health screenings, immunization services, maternal health resources, and wellness education initiatives.

Housing and Utility Assistance

Emergency housing support, rental assistance programs, utility payment help, and connections to local shelters.

Food and Basic Needs Support

Food pantries, community meal programs, clothing assistance, and seasonal support initiatives for families.

Healthy Baby and Family Resources

Prenatal services, parenting education, early childhood development programs, and home-visiting support for new families.

Youth Development and Employment Services

Tutoring programs, mentorship opportunities, job readiness training, and workforce development support.

Senior and Veteran Resources

Programs tailored to aging adults, veterans’ assistance services, and benefits navigation support.

These categories continue to expand in response to community input, ensuring the directory reflects evolving needs across Marion County.

Built by the Community, Growing With the Community

Healthy Ocala is not a static directory. It continues to expand based on feedback from people who live and work in Marion County.

Mayor Marciano emphasizes that “Healthy Ocala is built for the community, and it continues to grow because of our community. New categories and resources are added based on feedback from people who live and work right here in Marion County.”

Residents and organizations are encouraged to participate. If a quality local resource is missing, or if an organization serves the community and wants to be included, submissions are welcomed through the Healthy Ocala website.

“Your input helps make Healthy Ocala better for everyone.”

Building a Healthier Marion County

Healthy Ocala represents more than a directory, it reflects a broader commitment to coordinated community wellness. By bringing together behavioral health services, medical care, housing support, food programs, and family resources in one accessible platform, the initiative supports stability, early intervention, and long-term well-being.

When access to help becomes clearer and more organized, the entire community benefits. Healthy Ocala continues to serve as a practical, community-centered tool that helps Marion County residents move forward with confidence and support.

Start today and find the help you need in just a few clicks. Visit Healthy Ocala to quickly connect with trusted health, housing, food, and family support services across Marion County all in one free, easy-to-use directory.

The post Healthy Ocala: Expanding Access To Care in Marion County appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

President and Director Stephen Petty, Captain, U.S. Army, Retired, said that the VRC has launched a critical initiative to save the lives of veterans exposed to toxic hazards such as burn pits and Agent Orange during their service. With the support of the Marion County Hospital District (MCHD), the VRC is bringing cutting-edge medical technology to the veterans who need it most.

The Challenge: A Race Against Time

For many who served in the Southwest Asia theater from the Gulf War to more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the fight didn’t end there. Exposure to toxic environments, including burn pits and chemical hazards, has left a devastating health legacy.

This exposure creates a unique medical crisis: These toxins may trigger aggressive, fast-moving cancers that appear decades earlier than standard medical protocols expect. Because the health care system typically begins intensive screenings at ages 40-50, younger veterans fall into a dangerous gap in care. They may look perfectly healthy while harboring silent illnesses that standard checkups aren’t designed to find.

By the time physical symptoms like unexplained weight loss or a persistent cough appear, the cancer is often in its final stages. The Vet Resource Center’s mission is to intervene before that happens, providing advanced early-warning tests to identify these threats while they are still treatable, giving our veterans a genuine fighting chance.

How the Partnership Works

We recognized the urgency of this mission. Through our collaboration, we’ve helped the VRC overcome the biggest barrier to early detection: Cost.

The Impact of Our Collaboration

• Funding Advanced Testing: We furnish the dollars necessary to provide early warning cancer detection kits. These tests, which typically cost nearly $1,000, are now provided free of charge to eligible veterans.
• Corporate Outreach: Finding younger, working-age veterans is difficult. We leverage connections to help the VRC access local corporations, allowing them to identify employees who are veterans and offer them testing onsite.
• Rapid Response: A positive test result is terrifying. We ensure that when a veteran tests positive, they receive immediate access to high-level diagnostic care and treatment, rather than waiting months for appointments.

By The Numbers: Saving Lives in Marion County

Marion County is home to an estimated 50,000 veterans. Reaching them is a massive undertaking involving TV spots, newspaper ads, and the hard work of volunteers, including a Command Sergeant Major who coordinates outreach.

Since the partnership began, the results have been tangible:

• First Test Administered: Jan. 6th, 2025.
• Tests Completed: Nearly 250 with even more scheduled.
• Outreach: The VRC has spoken with over 2,500 individuals and 75 organizations.

A Real Success Story

The statistics represent real lives. Petty shared a powerful example of the program’s success:

One veteran took the free test provided by this partnership. The results indicated early signs of pancreatic and bile duct cancer, conditions that are notoriously difficult to detect and often fatal by the time symptoms arise. Because the test caught it at Stage 1, the veteran was able to seek treatment immediately.

Looking Ahead

The Vet Resource Center is continuing its crusade to educate the community. Stephen reminds all of us, veterans and civilians, to listen to our bodies. Unexplained weight loss, sores that won’t heal, or persistent coughs should never be ignored.

MCHD is proud to stand beside Stephen Petty and the Vet Resource Center as they turn the tide against veteran cancer.

Are you a veteran in Marion County? To learn more about the early detection kits or to support the Vet Resource Center, please visit their website or contact them directly.

The post Spotlight: The Vet Resource Center appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

The Active Marion Project (AMP) offers a clear, sustainable framework to help Marion County residents turn their New Year’s resolutions into lasting active lifestyles. Sponsored by the Marion County Hospital District, AMP is a free, countywide initiative focused on fun, practical steps toward better health.

Here is how the Active Marion Project utilizes structured challenges, community support, and data-backed goals to help you stay active all year long.

1. Structure Step Challenges With Clear Goals

Instead of pursuing vague fitness goals, AMP gives you a specific, measurable objective in your step count. The project is built around engaging, periodic step challenges that align with professional health recommendations.

• Meeting Health Benchmarks: The Harvard Medical School recommends a weekly minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity. By consistently engaging in the AMP step challenges and aiming for the Gold Level point tier (which aligns with the American Heart Association’s 10,000 steps per day or approximately 5 miles or 8km recommendation), you are hitting that exact professional benchmark for physical activity.
• Easy Tracking and Rewards: The free Active Marion Project 2 App integrates seamlessly with your existing devices (FitBit, Apple Health, and Google Fit). It automatically tracks your movement, allowing you to focus on walking rather than logging data. For every 100 steps you take, you earn a point, which can be redeemed for rewards through local partner businesses.

2. Community Creates Accountability

The strength of AMP lies in its emphasis on community. Moving together is proven to be far more effective than moving alone, providing the necessary accountability to overcome days when motivation is low.

• Team Competition: The AMP 2 app encourages users to form teams of three or more people. Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, these teams introduce a healthy dose of friendly competition. Team performance is tracked on a leaderboard, giving you a shared goal and a group of people counting on you to contribute your steps.
• A Focus Beyond Cardio: According to Harvard Health, a balanced fitness regimen should also include strength exercises, targeting all major muscle groups twice to three times each week. The AMP tracks any movement if you have the phone on you or are using a fitness tracker, so you can enjoy dancing, aerobics, gardening, or running to mix things up. Cycling, swimming or other activities will be included if you carry your smartphone or wear a tracker.

3. Boost Mental Health With Consistency

A smartly designed exercise program benefits both body and mind. The structure of the AMP challenge is perfectly suited to combat the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

• Combatting Depression: The structure of the AMP challenge helps you build habits that directly support better mental health. According to a study from Harvard Health Publishing, sedentary people are 44% more likely to be depressed. Those with mild to moderate depression could get similar results to those obtained through antidepressants just by exercising for 90 minutes each week.
• Measure Your Success: By keeping an objective, constant log of your activity, the AMP 2 app provides visual proof of your progress. Seeing your daily steps and points accumulate helps solidify your new habits and shows you exactly how much you are accomplishing, reinforcing the positive mental cycle.

This year, secure your success by making your commitment a community effort. The Active Marion Project provides structured challenges, group support, and tracking tools to ensure your commitment to an active lifestyle is a lasting one.

Learn more and download the Active Marion Project 2 app today by visiting mchdt.org/amp/download-app.

The post Stay Active in the New Year With the Active Marion Project appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Beacon Point is a dedicated resource ready to help.

The Holiday Reality of Stress and Mental Health

The shift from the everyday routine to a flurry of holiday activity can take a real toll. The statistics confirm that this time of year significantly impacts many:

• A NAMI study found that 64% of people with mental illness report that the holidays make their conditions worse.
• A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that 41% of U.S. adults reported an increase in stress during the holiday season.
• Common stressors include financial demands, managing complicated family gatherings, grief over lost loved ones, and the simple disruption of healthy routines.

Whether you’re dealing with “holiday blues,” Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or an existing mental health condition, it is vital to acknowledge your feelings and prioritize your well-being.

Self-Care Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

While you can’t control every stressful situation, you can take proactive steps to protect your mental health. Here are essential tips, inspired by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and the National Council on Aging (NCOA):

1. Acknowledge and Accept Your Feelings

It’s okay to not be okay during the holidays. Be realistic that the perfect holiday portrayed in commercials isn’t like everyday life, and give yourself permission to feel grief, sadness, or stress — even if others around you seem happy. Validating your emotions is the first step toward managing them.

2. Set Healthy Boundaries

Your time and energy are valuable! Protect them by learning to say “no.” It is acceptable to limit time with family members who create complicated dynamics or stress. Be realistic about your schedule and how much you can take on. Ask for help when you can and remember that declining an invitation to protect your mental health can be a necessary act of self-care.

3. Maintain Healthy Habits

The hustle often leads to neglecting basic self-care, which is critical for mental stability. Try to keep up with therapy appointments, a regular sleep schedule, and exercise. Be mindful of substances, as the holidays can trigger an increased use of alcohol and drugs. If you are in recovery, have a solid plan for social events and seek support when needed.

4. Create a Plan for Distress

Have a toolkit ready for when you feel sad, stressed, or lonely. This could involve reaching out to a friend, family member, or a professional support line like Beacon Point or 988. Engaging in self-care activities such as walking, a hobby, or simply watching your favorite movie can help. Additionally, volunteering or giving to others may boost your mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Local Support: How Beacon Point Can Help

For Marion County residents, one vital community resource is Beacon Point, an integrated care campus located in Ocala that’s committed to removing barriers to behavioral health and substance use treatment.

Beacon Point ensures you can access comprehensive care in one convenient location, supported by a network of community partners, regardless of your ability to pay.

Beacon Point Services

• 24/7 Care and Walk-In Assistance: Offering immediate access to continuous support for mental health care and substance use recovery.
• Outpatient Mental Health Services: Counseling and support to manage ongoing conditions and seasonal stress.
• Comprehensive Substance Use Recovery: Services like Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), inpatient detoxification, and residential programs, which are all crucial during a high-risk holiday season.
• Free and Low-Cost Primary Care: Addressing physical health concerns that often go hand-in-hand with mental health challenges.

In Crisis? Need Support Now?

If you or a loved one is struggling during the holidays:

• Contact Beacon Point 24-Hour Peer Support: 352-255-6985
• National Crisis Line: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
• Visit Beacon Point: 717 SW Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Ocala, FL 34472

The holidays can be both joyful and demanding, but you don’t have to face the challenges alone. By practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and reaching out for support, you can protect your mental health and enjoy a more peaceful season. Beacon Point and the Marion County Hospital District are here to support you every step of the way. This holiday season, give yourself the gift of wellness to connect, reflect, and take proactive steps toward emotional well-being.

For more information or to access local mental health resources, visit mchdt.org/beacon-point.

The post Mental Health and the Holidays: Finding Peace Amid the Pressure appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

In Marion County alone,

• 17% of the adult population lives with diabetes.
• 10% of the adult population are prediabetic.

In 2021, diabetes was the seventh-leading cause of death in Marion County.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes affects the body’s ability to manage blood sugar. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly use or make enough insulin, causing glucose or blood sugar to build up in the bloodstream instead of fueling the cells. Over time, this can increase the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, kidney damage, nerve issues, and certain cancers, but managing diabetes can help lower these risks.

That is why programs locally offered by the Marion County Diabetes Consortium, such as the Diabetes Empowerment Education Program, are so valuable.

How DEEP Can Help

The Marion County Hospital District (via Active Marion Project (AMP) and Community Home Project (CHP) facilitating DEEP classes) offers a free diabetes education curriculum designed to help Marion County residents with prediabetes or diabetes, relatives, and their caregivers gain a better understanding of diabetes self-care.

Classes typically last a total of eight weeks and provide participants with eight unique learning modules.

The goals of the DEEP curriculum include:

• Improving and maintaining the quality of life of persons with prediabetes and existing diabetes
• Preventing complications and incapacities
• Improving eating habits and maintaining adequate nutrition
• Increasing physical activity
• Developing self-care skills
• Improving the relationship between patients and health care providers
• Utilizing available resources

Did you know? MCHD partners with AdventHealth to provide free biometric screenings at DEEP classes that include A1C testing, lipid information, and blood pressure screenings.

Diabetes Facts To Remember

Taking charge of your health is the first step to preventing diabetes. Here are some insights from NIDDK to remember:

• Diabetes can damage many organs if unmanaged. High blood glucose over time may harm the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and the heart.
• Focus on ABCs of diabetes care. The NIDDK outlines three pillars:
  • A = A1C test (to assess average blood glucose levels)
  • B = Blood pressure management
  • C = Cholesterol (lipids) control
• Risk factors are cumulative and modifiable. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you are overweight or obese, are age 35 or older, have a family history of diabetes, and are less physically active.
• Small steps add up. Lifestyle habits like eating balanced meals, getting regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and avoiding smoking can help prevent or better manage diabetes.
• Don’t skip medications or medical guidance. Even when you “feel fine,” staying consistent with medications and working with your healthcare team matters.
• Mental health matters. Managing a chronic condition like diabetes can be stressful. It’s important to monitor your emotional well-being, seek support, and adopt healthy stress-coping strategies.
• Use your care team and community resources. Your healthcare team may include physicians, dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and social service professionals. They can help coordinate care and guide you to what may be best for you.

These insights underline a big idea: Awareness is only the starting point. To make a difference, knowledge must spur action, and that is where resources like DEEP classes come in.

Upcoming DEEP Classes in Ocklawaha

Take control and advocate for your health. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect with others on a similar health journey, free of charge.

If you’d like to join a DEEP class, save the date:

• When: Thursdays, Jan. 8 through Feb. 26
• Time: 10 a.m. to noon
• Location: Forest Public Library, 905 S Hwy 314 A, Ocklawaha, FL 32179

Additional dates include:

• When: Thursdays, Jan. 22 through March 12
• Time: 5-7 p.m.
• Location: Howard Academy, 306 NW 7 Ave. Building 3, Ocala, FL 34475

For more information, visit DEEP, Community Home Project, and The Active Marion Project.

The post November Is Diabetes Awareness Month appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

We believe that prevention begins with proactive measures like annual physicals, prenatal exams, blood pressure monitoring, cancer screenings, and other essential early diagnostics. These steps not only extend life but improve quality of life by preventing the progression of cancer and chronic diseases.

This October, the nation observes National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, National Dental Hygiene Month, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, as well as Mental Illness Awareness Week with National Depression Screening Day. We are reminded that prevention is the foundation of better health for every stage of life.

Breast Health and the Power of Early Detection

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, as an estimated 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Early detection greatly improves survival rates.

Prevention here means both screening and education:

• Regular mammograms as recommended by your provider, especially for women over 40 or those at higher risk, according to Johns Hopkins.
• Breast self-awareness and knowing what’s normal for your body so you can identify changes early.
• Healthy lifestyle choices that support breast health, including exercise, a balanced diet, and limited alcohol intake.

Our investment in action: MCHD partners with organizations and providers who make screenings more accessible, so cost, transportation, or awareness is never a barrier. We also invest in the Vet Resource Center, Inc., which provides early cancer detection and education specifically for Marion County veterans.

Oral Health and Prevention Beyond the Smile

Dental health is an essential but often overlooked part of preventive care. Good oral hygiene protects against gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss, and it also supports overall health by lowering the risk of systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Prevention looks like:

• Routine cleanings and checkups every six months.
• Daily brushing and flossing with fluoride toothpaste.
• A healthy diet that limits sugary snacks and drinks.

Our investment in action: We support access to quality dental care through investments in our community partners like Heart of Florida and FreeDOM Clinic.

Infant Safety and Simple Prevention Tips

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected and unexplained death of an otherwise healthy baby under one year old, most often occurring during sleep. Because these deaths frequently happen in a crib, SIDS is sometimes referred to as “crib death.”

While the exact cause remains unknown, research suggests it may be linked to issues in the part of an infant’s brain that regulates breathing and the ability to wake from sleep. It can be reduced through evidence-based safe sleep practices and proactive prenatal care.

According to the Mayo Clinic, prevention includes:

• Place your baby on their back to sleep – For the first year, make sure your baby is laid down on their back for every nap and bedtime, whether it’s you or another caregiver putting them to sleep. Don’t assume others will do it correctly; clearly communicate this. Once your baby can roll over on their own in both directions, this rule becomes less critical.
• Avoid sleeping on the stomach or side – Never place your baby on their stomach or side to sleep, except for supervised tummy time when awake.
• Keep the crib clear – Use only a firm, flat mattress with no pillows, stuffed animals, or other soft items.
• Prevent overheating – Dress your baby in light layers or a sleep sack, and avoid covering their head.
• Share a room, not a bed – Have your baby sleep in your room in their own crib or bassinet for at least six months.
• Never sleep with your baby – Avoid letting your baby sleep in an adult bed to prevent suffocation hazards.
• Breastfeed if possible – Breastfeeding for at least six months to a year may lower the risk of SIDS.
• Don’t rely on home monitors – Products claiming to prevent SIDS are not a substitute for safe sleep practices.
• Offer a pacifier at sleep time – Give a pacifier for naps and bedtime once breastfeeding is established, without straps or cords.
• Don’t force the pacifier – If your baby refuses it or it falls out during sleep, leave it out.
• Stay current on vaccines – Keeping your baby vaccinated may help reduce the risk of SIDS.

Our investment in action: MCHD supports prenatal education and safe sleep initiatives so parents and caregivers have the information and resources they need to keep babies safe during their most vulnerable months.

Mental Illness Awareness Week & National Depression Screening Day

Held during the first week of October, Mental Illness Awareness Week is a national effort to increase understanding, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention for mental health conditions. National Depression Screening Day, observed during the same week, offers a free and confidential way for individuals to assess their mental well-being and seek professional support if needed.

Early identification of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and other conditions that can make a critical difference in treatment and recovery. By promoting access to screenings and mental health resources, MCHD underscores that prevention isn’t only about physical health, it’s also about taking care of our minds.

To support mental wellness, here are some practical prevention tips that can help reduce the risk of depression or manage symptoms effectively:

• Stay connected with friends, family, or support groups to reduce isolation.
• Seek help early if you notice symptoms like persistent sadness or changes in sleep or appetite.
• Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.
• Limit alcohol and substance use, which can worsen symptoms.
• Establish a daily routine to provide structure and purpose.
• Educate yourself about depression symptoms and treatment options.
• Utilize professional resources like counseling or support groups.
• Encourage open conversations to reduce stigma around mental health.
• Take advantage of regular mental health screenings to catch concerns early.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential 24/7 support by phone, text, or web chat, making it easier for people in distress to quickly access vital mental health crisis services.

Our investment in action: At MCHD, we’re dedicated to whole-person prevention by integrating behavioral health and medical services to support mental health and depression awareness, partnering with organizations like SMA Healthcare, LifeStream, My Life Counsel, and more.

Prevention Is More Than One Month

While October’s observances shine a national spotlight on these issues, prevention is a year-round mission for MCHD. Our approach is rooted in early action and catching health concerns before they progress, and in many cases, before they even start.

This work is made possible through strategic investments in community programs that meet people where they are, from neighborhood health fairs to veteran-focused cancer screenings. By funding early diagnostics, we reduce the burden of disease in Marion County and help more residents live longer, healthier lives.

What You Can Do This October

• Schedule your annual checkup or any recommended screenings.
• Visit your dentist if it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning.
• Share safe sleep tips with new parents in your family or community.
• Check in on your mental health and encourage loved ones to seek support if they’re struggling.
• Talk to friends and loved ones about the value of early detection and preventive care.

Prevention is the thread that connects breast health, dental care, and infant safety. At MCHD, we are committed to keeping that thread strong through education, access, and community partnerships so every Marion County resident can live a healthier, longer, and more vibrant life.

The post October Spotlight on Prevention appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

This commitment is a core pillar of our strategy, guiding our support for programs that address health concerns before they become chronic, life-altering conditions. This month, we want to highlight some key initiatives that exemplify our focus on early intervention.

The Active Marion Project (AMP)

The Active Marion Project (AMP) is a project of MCHD that encourages residents to embrace a more active lifestyle. Through fun workshops, classes, and resources to help people manage stress and thrive at work, AMP motivates our community to get moving and adopt healthier habits. The goal is to prevent the onset of chronic, long-term illnesses and the progression of existing diseases through engaging and accessible resources.

Community Home Project and DEEP

The Community Home Project is another cornerstone of our prevention-focused strategy. This initiative assists families with employment, educational tutoring and continuing education, health care navigation and dental clinics, fitness and nutrition classes, and much more. A key component of this project is its focus on education through the Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP).

DEEP offers free eight-week classes throughout Marion County to help residents better manage or prevent diabetes. These classes provide the support and tools to better manage or prevent diabetes. By empowering residents with the knowledge and skills to manage their health proactively, we help individuals and families make sustainable lifestyle changes that prevent and manage chronic conditions.

Early Cancer Screenings With Vet Resources

One of our most impactful early intervention initiatives is our partnership with Vet Resource Center, Inc. The District provided a significant grant to support a crucial program offering free early cancer detection tests to Marion County veterans who were exposed to toxins during their service. The program uses the Galleri blood test, which can detect over 50 types of cancer at early stages, giving veterans a powerful tool for proactive health management. By investing in this program, we are directly addressing a critical health risk for our veterans and providing them with an opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment, which is often the key to a better outcome.

The Healthy Ocala Initiative

MCHD also supports the Healthy Ocala Initiative, which provides a central hub for behavioral health and substance use recovery services. Supported by Ocala Mayor Ben Mariciano and MCHD, the initiative is designed so that every citizen can find the care they need by offering a trusted directory of local providers, services and tools. The directory offers listings for various support areas, including:

• Behavioral / Mental Health
• Substance Use
• Recovery Support
• Family and Youth
• Community Support
• Healthy Baby
• Housing and Utilities
• Food & Clothing
• Employment
• Education & Mentoring

This program reflects our commitment to a holistic view of health, understanding that early intervention in behavioral health is as critical as physical health to empowering a thriving community.

Your Health and Wellness Is Our Mission

MCHD is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of Marion County citizens through projects and initiatives that inspire health. We connect people with resources that will help them pursue healthier lifestyles, and we support programs that are making a difference. These efforts are a direct result of the District’s health-forward investment strategy, which aims to improve the health of our entire community and reduce the long-term burden of chronic disease. Our partnerships with local organizations and our support for innovative health initiatives demonstrate our unwavering commitment to inspiring health and wellness for every citizen of Marion County.

For more information visit mchdt.org.

The post Prevention Is Power: How Marion County Hospital District Prioritizes Early Intervention appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

If you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or simply care about building a stronger, healthier Marion County, Recovery Month is a chance to learn, connect, and take action in ways that create lasting impact.

What Is National Recovery Month?

Since 1989, National Recovery Month has been a national observance held to “promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible.”

This national campaign highlights the value of treatment, the importance of mental and behavioral health, and the incredible resilience of individuals and families in recovery.

Throughout September, communities host events, share stories of hope, and show support for those living with or affected by substance use.

It’s a time to:

• Break the stigma surrounding recovery
• Connect individuals to local services and support
• Celebrate the people and programs making recovery possible

Join Us at the Recovery Festival in Ocala, FL

Saturday, Sept.13, 2025 | Tuscawilla Park
One of the most exciting local events of the month is the Recovery Festival at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala, a vibrant, family-friendly day of celebration and connection for people from all walks of life.

If you’re seeking help, offering support, or simply want to be part of something positive, the Recovery Festival is an opportunity to gather in unity and joy.

Festival highlights include:

• Live music and entertainment
• Inspiring speakers and stories from individuals in recovery
• Delicious food and refreshments
• Community resources
• Kids’ activities

Bring the whole family and experience firsthand how strong, supportive, and compassionate our recovery community really is.

How You Can Get Involved

You don’t have to be in recovery to make a difference during Recovery Month. Here are just a few ways to show support:

• Attend the Recovery Festival on Sept. 13. Bring a friend, neighbor, or family member.
• Check out volunteer opportunities with a local organization working in recovery.
• Share your voice on social media using the hashtag #RecoveryMonth to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
• Check in with loved ones who may be struggling. Sometimes just knowing someone cares can change a life.

Every action counts. Whether it’s attending an event, starting a conversation, or connecting someone to help, your involvement can spark real change.

Recovery Is Community Work

At its heart, Recovery Month is about more than awareness, it’s about hope, compassion, and connection. It’s about building a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to move forward, no matter where they are in their journey.

Let’s celebrate the strength of recovery and the power of coming together. Join us at the Recovery Festival on Sept. 13, 2025, at Tuscawilla Park, and help spread the message that recovery is not only possible, it’s happening, every day, in our own backyard.

For updates and more information, visit mchdt.org.

The post Celebrating National Recovery Month: How You Can Get Involved appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.