PHX Reporter

In April, mental health professionals from Banner Health’s Torrington Community Hospital are focusing on stress management for Stress Awareness Month. They are concentrating particularly on mental health resources for older adults.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that about 20% of people aged 55 and over face some mental health issues, with depression being the most prevalent. A program called Generations at Community Hospital targets this age group, offering group therapy sessions. Associate Director of Behavioral Health Services, Melanie Wolfe, highlighted the importance of peer support, stating, “Learning from others and creating those connections is so important.”

Greg Krall, a licensed clinical therapist, leads the Generations program. He joined the Torrington community in 2018 and has worked with the program since its inception seven years ago. Krall remarked, "As a therapist, I feel like I learn so much from people every day," while advocating for recognizing stress as "information" rather than inherently negative.

Additionally, Jimi Courtney, a newcomer to Banner Health, provides a new perspective on stress management. She recommends techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided meditation, advising patients to keep building a personal toolkit for coping strategies.

The clinic’s mental health services address different stress sources, including financial concerns, political anxiety, grief, and family relationships. Many services are covered by Medicare and Medicaid, with most major insurances accepted. Those interested can reach the Banner Health Clinic at 307-532-2107 or consult their primary care physician for a referral.

Banner Health operates Community Hospital in Torrington, Wyo., as part of its 33-hospital network across six states. The hospital provides various medical services, including surgery, oncology, and emergency care. Additional information is available at bannerhealth.com/torrington.