Lincoln County residents encouraged to take part in Social Connection Challenge

LINCOLN COUNTY – In recognition of Mental Health Month, the Healthy Minds for Lincoln County Coalition, Aspirus Merrill Hospital and the Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) are encouraging county residents to join the Social Connection Challenge.

A release from LCHD said the challenge, which will take place through May and June, encourages community members to prioritize social connection by limiting screen time, reaching out to friends, family and neighbors, seeking opportunities to help others and finding ways to get involved in the community.

“When we have strong relationships and feel connected to others, our mental health improves,” LCHD stated. “Even the smallest of actions can make a difference and help provide meaning and purpose in our lives.”

LCHD said the public can take part by picking up a challenge form at the Tomahawk Public Library, 300 W. Lincoln Ave., Tomahawk; the T.B. Scott Free Library, 106 1^st St., Merrill; or LCHD, 607 N. Sales St., Suite 101, Merrill.

The form can also be accessed online and printed by visiting www.bit.ly/LCConnectionChallenge.

The challenge form includes a list of 65 ways to connect with others, LCHD explained. Once 20 activities are completed, forms can be dropped off at any of the pick-up locations or mailed to LCHD.

Participants must submit forms by Thursday, July 11 to be entered in a raffle to win a $50.00 Tomahawk or Merrill Chamber gift certificate, which can be used at local businesses. There will be a total of 40 winners who will be contacted the week of Monday, July 21, according to LCHD.

“We know that social connection is essential to our mental health,” said Kristin Bath, LCHD Public Health Educator and Lead for the Healthy Minds Coalition. “We hope this challenge provides a fun way for families, friends and our community to become more connected and take part in activities that make us feel good and bring us together.”