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National Grief Awareness Day on August 30: Rockland County Offers Mental Health Support

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10 months ago

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In observance of National Grief Awareness Day on August 30, the Rockland Behavioral Health Response Team (BHRT) is encouraging residents to acknowledge the many forms of grief and to seek support when needed.

Grief, often associated with the loss of a loved one, can also arise from separation, illness, job loss, or major life changes. Experts note that grief is a deeply personal experience and doesn’t follow a set timeline. Many individuals may cycle through various emotions—including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—as described in the widely recognized Kübler-Ross model.

“Grief doesn’t always come with visible signs or outward expressions,” said Tim Egan, Executive Director of Rockland Paramedic Services, which operates BHRT. “It can hide behind daily routines. Our team is here to offer support to anyone struggling in silence.”

To help those coping with grief, BHRT provides free, 24/7 crisis response services, including on-site emotional support and connections to ongoing counseling, peer support, and community resources.

BHRT Services Include:

  • Free, on-site mental health crisis response

  • Non-judgmental emotional support and listening

  • Referrals to counseling, peer services, and local resources

  • Services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Anyone in need of help can contact the BHRT Crisis Hotline at (845) 517‑0400.

Community Engagement on August 30

In honor of National Grief Awareness Day, BHRT is also encouraging the public to participate in two community initiatives:

  • Spotlight on Stories – Residents are invited to share anonymous messages of remembrance or reflections on grief via direct message on BHRT’s Facebook page or by email at info@rocklandhelp.org.

  • Grief Check-In Prompt – Individuals are encouraged to reach out to someone with a simple message: “I’m thinking of you today.”

“Whether someone is navigating recent loss or unresolved grief from the past, support is available,” said Egan. “No one should have to go through it alone.”

About BHRT

The Rockland Behavioral Health Response Team (BHRT) is a county initiative providing mobile, community-based mental health crisis intervention. Staffed by trained clinicians and peer specialists, the team operates outside of traditional emergency services to offer compassionate, confidential care at no cost.

More information is available at www.rocklandhelp.org.

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Government

Rockland County Promotes Native Plants and Water-Smart Landscaping

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7 days ago

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June 3, 2026

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The Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to embrace water-smart landscaping practices that conserve water and support environmental health.

Officials recommend reducing nonfunctional lawn areas and replacing them with native plants, drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. These practices help reduce water consumption, manage stormwater runoff, improve groundwater recharge, and increase resilience to climate change.

According to the Council, water demand in Rockland County rises from an average of 30 million gallons per day to as much as 45 million gallons per day during the warmer months, placing additional strain on local water supplies.

Residents are encouraged to consider native plants such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower ‘Elizabeth Oliver,’ and Jacob’s Ladder, which require less watering once established and are well-suited to local conditions.

Examples of successful rain gardens featuring native plants can be found at Orangeburg Library, Bowline Point Park, Kennedy Dells County Park, and Piermont Library.

By replacing sections of lawn with native plants and incorporating features that manage rainwater naturally, residents can play a direct role in protecting Rockland County’s water resources.

The initiative is part of the county’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable landscaping and encourage participation in the national “Less Lawn More Life” movement.

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Government

Rockland Conservation & Service Corps Stream Team Helps Prevent Flooding and Protect Waterways

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7 days ago

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June 3, 2026

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Members of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps are helping protect local communities through their work with the Rockland County Drainage Agency, inspecting and assessing streams throughout Rockland County.

The Corps’ Stream Team identifies obstructions such as fallen trees, debris, and sediment buildup that can restrict water flow and contribute to flooding during heavy storms. Members also document illicit discharges, erosion issues, and areas in need of sediment remediation.

The information collected helps county officials address potential problems before they become larger environmental or public safety concerns.

In addition to reducing flood risks, the Stream Team’s work supports water quality and helps maintain healthy ecosystems throughout the county. By monitoring local waterways and identifying issues early, the team plays an important role in protecting Rockland County’s natural resources and strengthening community resilience.

Officials say the partnership highlights the importance of proactive environmental stewardship and ongoing efforts to keep Rockland County’s streams healthy, safe, and flowing properly.

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