The Vital Role of Mental Health Therapists in Our Community

Men avoid going to the doctor even when they think they should. While skipping an appointment might seem harmless, it can mean missing signs of serious conditions.

Men's Health Month is the perfect time to focus on your well-being and ensure you're on track for a healthy future with these five important health screenings.

Hepatitis C is often called a “silent” disease because many people who carry the virus feel perfectly healthy, often for years. Yet beneath the surface, the infection can slowly damage the liver as it progresses, leading to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. The good news is...

Mental health conditions touch nearly every community, workplace, and family in America, yet many people continue to struggle in silence. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 22.8 percent of adults — roughly one in five people — experience a diagnosable mental illness each year.

April is National Minority Health Month, highlighting the ongoing health disparities that disproportionately impact communities across the United States.

Chronic stress can lead to more serious conditions such as heart disease and decreased immune function. A provider can help you manage your stress effectively.

Dear InterCommunity Staff and Community Partners, It is a privilege to assume the role of President & CEO and to lead InterCommunity during such a significant period for the nation's healthcare system. My experience over the past twenty years with many of you has highlighted that our core strength is derived not only from clinical expertise but also from the compassion, dedication, and teamwork that characterize our culture. To our staff: Thank you for being truly mission driven. Each patient you assist, every challenge you meet, and all innovations you adopt significantly impacts the lives of those who rely on our care. I am committed to actively listening, learning, and collaborating with you to ensure that you have the necessary tools, support, and recognition to thrive. To our community partners: Your collaboration is vital to achieving our shared vision of healthier and stronger communities. Together, we will strive to enhance access, improve outcomes, and address the evolving needs of those we serve. I look forward to strengthening our partnerships and exploring new opportunities for collective meaningful impact. This leadership transition presents a chance to build on our achievements, welcome innovation, and shape the future of care with integrity and excellence. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to embark on the journey ahead alongside all of you. With great appreciation, Tyler V.R. Booth, LCSW InterCommunity President and Chief Executive Officer

“Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains one of the most serious long-term complications affecting our patient population at InterCommunity,” stated Dr. Zachary Steinbach, Medical Lead at InterCommunity Health Care. “Often called a 'silent' condition, CKD can progress for years without causing noticeable symptoms. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, the disease is often in its most advanced stages.” Advanced CKD can lead to severe health consequences, including cardiovascular disease, fluid overload, and the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant. According to national health data, millions of Americans are living with CKD — and many are unaware they have it. Risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease. Given this, our recent focus at InterCommunity has been closing the diabetes care gap to help prevent these outcomes. Early intervention — through blood pressure control, blood sugar management, and healthy lifestyle choices — can significantly slow disease progression. At InterCommunity, we are committed to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting patients in managing their kidney health. If you or anyone you know needs assistance with diabetes, contact InterCommunity at 860-569-5900.

Epilepsy is more common than many people realize and is often misunderstood. It is a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system and is marked by recurring seizures. These seizures occur when clusters of nerve cells in the brain send out abnormal electrical signals, briefly disrupting the brain’s usual rhythm and activity. Depending on the area of the brain involved, seizures can look very different, from brief lapses in awareness or staring spells to full-body convulsions. A diagnosis of epilepsy is typically made when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures, a single seizure with a high likelihood of recurrence, or when a specific epilepsy syndrome is identified. The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classifies epilepsy as a disease rather than a disorder, underscoring its seriousness and the importance of timely, appropriate care. Epilepsy can develop at any age and has many possible causes, including genetics, brain injury, stroke, infection, or developmental conditions, though in many cases the exact cause is unknown. While seizures can be frightening, epilepsy is often manageable. Medications help control seizures in about two-thirds of people, and other treatments such as specialized diets, nerve stimulation, or surgery may be effective when medication alone is not enough. Globally, epilepsy affects an estimated 50 million people, roughly 1 in every 100 individuals. Yet stigma and misunderstanding remain significant challenges. Learning seizure first aid, supporting ongoing research, and advocating for accessible, affordable treatment can all make a meaningful difference. With greater awareness comes greater compassion and a clearer path to improving the lives of those affected. Aid for Seizures Watching someone have a convulsive seizure can be unsettling, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. During this type of seizure, a person may lose consciousness and fall. The body often becomes stiff at first, followed by rhythmic jerking or twitching of the arms and legs. Recovery can take several minutes, and the person may feel confused or exhausted afterward. Here’s how you can help safely and effectively: Stay calm. Your steady presence matters more than you think. Protect from injury. Gently guide them away from danger and clear the area of sharp or hard objects. Ease them onto their side as the seizure subsides. This helps keep the airway clear and allows fluids to drain. Do not put anything in their mouth. It is a myth that someone can swallow their tongue. Do not restrain their movements. Let the seizure run its course. Avoid food or drink until they are fully alert and able to swallow safely. Time the seizure. Most seizures end within a few minutes. Call emergency services if it lasts longer than five minutes, if seizures happen back-to-back, or if the person is injured, pregnant, or has diabetes. Stay with them until they are fully awake and aware. Offer reassurance as they recover.  Learning these simple steps can turn a moment of fear into one of support and safety. For more information about epilepsy and seizure first aid, visit the Epilepsy Foundation at www.epilepsy.com .