At MCHD, we believe prevention is the foundation of a healthy community. Back-to-school season is the perfect reminder that the small, proactive choices we make every day, for ourselves and for our children, have a lasting impact on long-term health and wellbeing.

Here’s how we’re supporting Marion County families just in time for the start of a new school year and beyond.

Start the Year Strong: Preventive Health for Kids and Families

Before the first day of school, many families are focused on supply lists and new shoes. This is also the right time to schedule the appointments that can make a real difference in your child’s health throughout the year.

• Annual physicals and well-child visits help identify developmental concerns, growth issues, and chronic conditions early.
• Vision and hearing screenings are often the first step in identifying learning challenges that can be mistaken for behavioral issues in the classroom.
• Dental checkups set kids up for healthy habits and catch problems before they become painful and costly.
• Immunizations can help keep kids in school and out of the doctor’s office.

Prevention is about avoiding illness and giving children the foundation they need to show up, focus, and thrive.

Need help navigating medical benefits or finding a provider? Community Home Project offers healthcare navigation appointments to help Marion County families access the care they need.

Learn more by calling 352-671-4186 or visiting mchdt.org/community-home-project.

FANS: Building Healthy Habits Where Kids Spend Their Days

For kids in Marion County schools, healthy habits are built at home and throughout the school day, and our Fitness and Nutrition in Schools (FANS) program is right there with them.

FANS works directly with Marion County schools to support physical education, school gardens, nutrition education, and family wellness events. From PE spotlights to garden taste tests to Family Science Nights, FANS creates meaningful opportunities for students to connect movement and nutrition to their everyday lives.

When kids learn healthy habits early, those habits follow them. That is the long game, and FANS is playing it every day.

Learn more at mchdt.org/fans-fitness-and-nutrition-in-schools.

AMP: Keeping Parents and Caregivers Healthy Too

Back to school is a big time for our kids, and a natural reset for the adults in their lives. When parents and caregivers prioritize their own health, the whole family benefits.

The Active Marion Project (AMP) offers free workplace wellness programs, step challenges, health education, and the AMP 2 app, making it easy for Marion County adults to stay active and engaged no matter how busy the school year gets.

AMP also offers free Hands-Only CPR training for businesses and organizations through a partnership with GatorCPR, because being prepared is one of the most important things any adult can do.

Contact us to learn more at amp@mchdt.org, 352-619-4303, and visit mchdt.org/amp for the latest updates.

Beacon Point: Supporting the Whole Child and the Whole Family

Back to school can also bring stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges for children and families alike. For some, those challenges go deeper.

Beacon Point is our integrated care center offering behavioral health services, substance use treatment, recovery support, and primary care all in one place. Services are designed to support the whole person, and are available to all Marion County residents regardless of ability to pay.

If your family is navigating mental health concerns, emotional well-being, or other behavioral health challenges as the school year begins, support is available.

Fill out an inquiry form at mchdt.org/beacon-point/beacon-point-contact-us.

Healthy Ocala: Your Guide to Local Resources

Not sure where to start? Healthy Ocala is a free online directory connecting Marion County residents with local health and community resources, from behavioral health and food assistance to employment, education, senior services, and more.

Whether you are a parent looking for after-school programs, a caregiver navigating healthcare, or an individual looking for support,

Healthy Ocala makes it easier to find the right help in your own community.

Explore the directory at mchdt.org/healthyocala.

Make Prevention Part of Your Back-to-School Routine

The start of a new school year is full of possibilities. It’s a chance to build better routines, connect with community resources, and invest in the long-term health of your family.

MCHD funds programs and partnerships across Marion County that make prevention possible every day. From the classroom to the clinic to the community, we are here to help every Marion County resident live a longer, healthier life.

Learn more about MCHD and our programs at mchdt.org or call us at 352-622-3662.

The post Back to School, Back to Prevention appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

The post Simple Steps To Stay Healthy and Safe This Summer appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

Now in its 30th year, National Safety Month is a nationwide initiative led by the National Safety Council (NSC) dedicated to reducing preventable injuries and deaths at work, on the road, and in our homes and communities. This June, we’re joining organizations across the country in raising awareness, because prevention is at the heart of everything we do.

Prevention Is the Foundation of a Healthier Community

As one of our core pillars, prevention means taking proactive steps before a health crisis occurs. We are committed to investing in community programs that support annual physicals, prenatal exams, blood pressure monitoring, cancer screenings, and other essential early diagnostics that can improve both lifespan and healthspan. Early detection saves lives. Catching a health issue before it progresses is one of the most powerful tools we have.

That commitment extends to the veterans in our community. Through our investment in the Vet Resource Center, Inc., we support early cancer detection and health education specifically for Marion County veterans, because those who served our country deserve proactive, not reactive, care.

Safety and prevention are two sides of the same coin. Whether we’re talking about wearing a seatbelt, scheduling a mammogram, or getting a blood pressure check, every small action is an investment in a longer, healthier life.

This June: Four Weeks, Four Life-Saving Topics

The NSC has organized National Safety Month 2026 around four weekly themes, each one relevant to everyday life here in Marion County.

Week 1 (June 1-6): Moving Safety Forward

The first week challenges all of us to advance a culture of safety with forward-thinking strategies. At MCHD, this means continuing to invest in the programs and partnerships that create healthier environments before emergencies arise. A proactive mindset is a safe mindset.

Week 2 (June 7-13): Staying Safe on the Roads

Marion County has busy roads, and road safety is a real concern for our community. This week focuses on practical guidance for drivers, pedestrians, and fleet workers to help reduce crashes. Whether you focus on putting down the phone, wearing a seatbelt, or watching for cyclists and pedestrians, road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Week 3 (June 14-20): Promoting Holistic Worker Health

True health is physical, mental and emotional. This week highlights the importance of total worker well-being, including mental health, stress management, and work-life balance. This aligns deeply with our investment in behavioral health resources through Beacon Point, our integrated care center that blends mental health, substance use treatment, and primary care under one roof.

Week 4 (June 21-30): Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common, and most preventable, causes of injury, both at work and at home. Simple steps like removing clutter, improving lighting, and wearing proper footwear can make a significant difference. This is especially important for older adults and those managing chronic conditions that affect balance or mobility.

What You Can Do This June

National Safety Month is a reminder that prevention is a choice we make every day. Here are a few steps Marion County residents can take this June:

• Schedule a preventive health screening. Annual physicals, blood pressure checks, and cancer screenings are among the most impactful things you can do for your long-term health. Don’t wait for a symptom to prompt action.
• Talk to your family about road safety. Make a household commitment to distraction-free driving.
• Assess your home for fall hazards. Check rugs, staircases, and outdoor walkways for potential risks.
• Check in on your mental health. June is also a time to be honest about stress, anxiety, and your emotional well-being, and to reach out for support if you need it.

If you’re a veteran, connect with the Vet Resource Center for early cancer detection resources and health education designed specifically for those who have served.

MCHDT Is With You

The Marion County Hospital District exists to improve the health and wellness of every resident in our community, not just when illness strikes, but long before it does. National Safety Month is a perfect reminder that prevention is a year-round commitment, and we’re proud to be your partner in it.

To learn more about our prevention programs and community resources, visit mchdt.org or explore our Interactive Resource Map to find services near you.

The post How Marion County Is Marking National Safety Month appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

The Power of Physical Activity

Physical activity is about moving your body in ways that support your overall well-being. Regular movement can deliver real, lasting benefits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 110,000 deaths per year could be prevented if U.S. adults over 40 increased physical activity. Just 10 more minutes of physical activity per day can make a measurable difference in health and longevity.

Being physically active can:

• Strengthen your heart and lower the risk of heart disease
• Help prevent and manage conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure
• Improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
• Increase energy and improve sleep quality
• Support a healthy weight and boost confidence

The best part? You don’t need a gym membership or intense workouts to see results. Even moderate activity like a brisk 30-minute walk can make a meaningful difference.

Small Steps Lead to Big Changes

For many people, getting started is the hardest part. That’s why raising awareness is so important. According to the CDC, adults under 60 see reduced risk of early death at around 8,000-10,000 steps per day. Adults 60+ see benefits at 6,000-8,000 steps per day.

Physical activity doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can start with small, simple steps:

• Parking farther away from your destination
• Taking the stairs instead of the elevator
• Walking during lunch breaks
• Spending time outdoors with family and friends

These small choices add up over time and can lead to significant health improvements.

Supporting Wellness Through the Active Marion Project (AMP)

MCHD is committed to making healthy living accessible to everyone in our community. One way we do that is through the Active Marion Project (AMP), a project of the Marion County Hospital District focusing on workplace wellness and community health education.

AMP helps residents turn awareness into action by offering:

• Community-wide wellness initiatives
• Educational resources and support
• Workplace wellness programs
• Fun and motivating Step Challenges

Free Workplace Wellness Assistance

Through Free Workplace Wellness Assistance, employers can 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.

Stay Motivated With AMP Step Challenges

AMP Step Challenges are a great way to build healthy habits while staying engaged and accountable. Participants can track their daily steps, join teams, and take part in friendly competition.

These challenges help:

• Encourage consistency
• Build a sense of community
• Make physical activity fun and rewarding

If you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to stay on track, step challenges provide the motivation to keep moving.

Make Movement Part of Your Day With the AMP 2 App

The AMP 2 App makes it easier than ever to stay active and connected. With just a few taps, you can:

• Track your steps and daily activity
• Join challenges and monitor your progress
• Connect with others in the community
• Stay informed about wellness events and tips

It’s a simple, convenient tool that turns everyday movement into measurable progress. 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.

Supporting Your Whole Health With Healthy Ocala

Physical activity is a powerful step toward better health, but it’s just one part of the bigger picture. Overall wellness also includes mental health, access to care, and community support.

Through Healthy Ocala, the Marion County Hospital District connects residents to a wide range of local services. Through a free online directory, Marion County families can find support for:

• Behavioral health and mental wellness
• Substance use and recovery services
• Food, housing, and financial assistance
• Family, youth, and senior resources
• Employment and education opportunities

If you’re looking to improve your physical fitness or navigate life’s challenges, these resources are here to help you take the next step.

To learn more or get connected, visit the Healthy Ocala directory of health community resources.

Building Healthy Habits Early With FANS

Creating a healthier community starts with our youngest residents. The Fitness and Nutrition in Schools (FANS) program is a free initiative designed to support both public and private schools throughout Marion County.

FANS focuses on reducing childhood obesity and preventing diabetes by helping students, families, and school staff adopt healthier habits. The program works by:

• Increasing opportunities for daily physical activity
• Promoting healthy lifestyle choices both in and out of the classroom
• Creating a culture of wellness within schools

By encouraging movement and nutrition education at an early age, FANS helps children build lifelong habits that support their physical and mental well-being.

When students learn the value of staying active early on, they’re more likely to carry those habits into adulthood, leading to a healthier Marion County for generations to come.

Let’s Build a Healthier Marion County

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is a reminder that every movement counts. By raising awareness about the benefits of physical activity, we can empower more people in Marion County to take control of their health.

This May, challenge yourself to move a little more each day, and encourage others to do the same.

Whether it’s joining an AMP Step Challenge, downloading the AMP 2 App, or simply taking a daily walk, every step you take brings you closer to better health.

The post Move More, Live Better in Marion County appeared first on Marion County Hospital District.

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.

You might be interested in: 5 Science-Backed Ways to Reduce Stress Every Day

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.

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.

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