It's essential to have facilities that offer various support programs from substance abuse services and therapeutic intervention for behavioral issues to individual and family counseling. NorthKey Community Care has provided comprehensive mental health services to Covington and the Northern Kentucky region since 1966. One of the main reasons NorthKey can do what they do is because of the work of The Friends of NorthKey. Often simply referred to as The Friends, this group of passionate, dedicated supporters is committed to ensuring the community has access to quality mental health services.

Below are a few ways The Friends’ work supports NorthKey in its mission:

Increasing Awareness of Mental Health Issues

Despite the growing interest on mental health issues in recent years, there is still too little awareness surrounding it and how it impacts people's lives. The Friends' work aims to show how mental and emotional health are just as important as physical health. With increased awareness comes greater understanding, and this benefits those who struggle with mental illness, their loved ones, and society as a whole.

Destigmatizing Mental Illness

It often seems like the only times we hear about mental illness in the news is after a tragedy or during a health care debate. By showing only these sides of the issue, there are abundant misconceptions about mental illness, those who experience it, and the treatment and recovery processes. The Friends' work sets out to debunk these misconceptions and present mental illness for what it is: a health issue that can be managed and treated. And, there is never any shame in that.

Supporting Services Locally

The Friends want to make certain that anyone who needs mental health services has sufficient access to the health care providers and treatment options they need and deserve. By raising money, increasing awareness, and removing the stigma from mental illness, The Friends have created a welcoming, inclusive, and helpful community at NorthKey Community Care. 

Without The Friends’ sustaining work, NorthKey would not be able to provide the comprehensive level of services that they proudly offer the community. To donate your money or time, visit The Friends' page at the NorthKey Community Care website, or call them at (859) 331-3292. Also, follow NorthKey on Facebook and Google+ for more information about available mental health services.