The Only Thing That Matters Now is ActionAn oped submitted to the Salt Lake Tribune by Jessica L. Jones, M.D., MSPH, and José E. Rodríguez, M.D., FAAFP (Rick Bowmer | AP photo) Health care workers and medical students pause for 8 minutes 46 seconds of silence in front of the University of Utah Health Sciences Education Building during a demonstration in support of the Black Lives Matter movement Friday, June 5, 2020, in Salt Lake City. “It sucks to be Black!” exclaimed a non-minority epidemiologist colleague to our class of graduate students. Why would someone think that is ever appropriate to say about anyone, but especially in a professional setting? We are tired of the off-color comments. We are tired of seeing statements from organizations about being against racism. We are tired of vilification of peaceful protesters, and tired of having to be the police for diversity. But, more than anything, we are tired of the tolerance of wrong things. READ MORE... UTAH STRONG Crisis Counseling Program LaunchesThe UTAH STRONG Crisis Counseling Program has been developed to assist people in finding ways to cope with stress caused by Coronavirus (COVID19). UTAH STRONG provides free crisis counseling services through virtual outreach, public education, emotional support, education, information and referral and will be working toward community outreach once the State opens up. There are no medical or financial screening methods to qualify to receive services. UTAH STRONG staff are available to individuals, families, community groups, service organizations, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, those experiencing homelessness, tribes and cultural minority groups. The Program is operated by the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health in the Department of Human Services and is funded through a grant by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and facilitated with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Healthcare providers are encouraged to take advantage of this service for themselves or their patients whenever needed. If you have questions or need help, please call or text: 1-385-386-2289 or email your first name and number to UtahStrong@utah.gov. They are available 7 days a week from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. After Hours if you need an immediate response please contact the SAMSHA Distress Hotline at 1-800-985-5900 or the UNI Crisis Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) SAVE THE DATE -
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