Public encouraged to join May Social Connection Challenge

LINCOLN COUNTY – May is Mental Health Month, and the Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD), Aspirus Health and the Lincoln County Healthy Minds Coalition are encouraging those who live or work in Lincoln County to prioritize social connection by participating in a community-wide challenge.

“We know that social connection is critical for our overall mental health and well-being,” LCHD said in a release. “The challenge is simple and encourages you to do activities with others. Activities focus on limiting screen time, reaching out to friends, family and neighbors, finding opportunities to help others and getting involved in your community.”

There are two ways to join the challenge:

• Print or pick up a challenge form at the Lincoln County Health Department, Lincoln County Department of Social Services, T.B. Scott Free Library, Tomahawk Public Library or the Merrill or Tomahawk Chambers of Commerce.
• Access the online form at https://bit.ly/LCConnectionChallenge26.  

“Once you complete 15 challenge activities, return your form to any of the pick-up locations listed above,” LCHD explained. “You can also send by mail to the Health Department, 607 N. Sales Street, Suite 101, Merrill, or complete the online form.”

Participants must submit forms by Friday, June 5 to be entered in a raffle to win a $50.00 Merrill or Tomahawk Chamber of Commerce Gift Certificate, which can be used at local businesses. There will be a total of 20 winners who will be contacted the week of Monday, June 15.

“We are excited to hold this challenge for a second year,” said Kristin Bath, LCHD Public Health Promotion and Education Specialist. “We hope this challenge provides a fun way for families, friends and our community to take part in activities that bring us together and are good for our mental health.”