Suicide and drug deaths challenge area morgues as pandemic lingers on
As 2021 comes to an end and the pandemic lingers on, a second cold-storage trailer is now parked outside the Stark County Coroner’s office. That is according to the Canton Repository that is reporting the trailer has been borrowed from Columbiana County due to suicides over the holiday and Covid-19 cases.
Here in the Valley, Mercer County Coroner John Libation says that while the number of county suicides have remained flat "the opioid problem is huge."
Libonati says in 2021, the county has seen more overdose deaths than their "worst year" previously.
Libonati says four years ago the county saw 53 overdose deaths. This year, the county has confirmed 56 overdose deaths and 30 cases are still pending. Libonati says in all likelihood, one-third of those 30 cases will also be due to drug use.
Libonati spoke passionately about his work. He said as a coroner he believes he has a responsibility to preserve life.
"No death should go unnoticed," said Libonati.
And he believes the deaths that do occur should go towards making a decision on how to help the living.
Libonati said he feels that as a society we struggle with disconnection and loneliness. He believes the pandemic has only made those feelings more extreme.
He encourages anyone struggling with addiction to know they are not alone and that help is available.
The Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission is a non-profit organization that can help with addiction and mental health challenges.
Drug and Alcohol Director Tracy Bornik says the commission can provide help to those who are un-or-underinsured.
She said the commission contracts with programs that are both in-county and throughout the state to provide detox facilities and rehabilitation beds.
Bornik also notes that for those who may be unsure if they have a problem, but find themselves drinking more than usual, the commission can help assess the situation and provide an appropriate level of care and support.
Officials with the Behavioral Health Commission are also working to reduce stigma that can come with seeking mental health support.
Bornik said just recently the commission completed a survey to better understand the stigmas individuals may associate with mental health to better break down those barriers.
The commission offers 24/7 help through their Crisis Hotline: 724-662-2227.
