The minute I learned Hawaii was asking tourist visitors to pay extra climate-change fees (“Hawaii plans to increase hotel tax to help it cope with climate change,” April 30), I knew that the have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too crowd would be upset about it. If there’s one thing that self-styled fiscal conservatives no longer seem to get, it’s the idea of planning for the future.
Tourism is a huge part of our 50th state’s economy, and it’s a simple fact that almost every visitor arrives there by air, thus contributing to the aviation industry’s greenhouse emissions. A warming planet is more expensive, with resource shortages, refugee crises, and intensifying natural disasters adding to the tab. It makes sound financial sense to ask visitors to contribute directly to Hawaii’s climate mitigation programs.
A fee added to your hotel bill, to help ensure that all of us can continue to enjoy the beauty of these islands for decades to come? That is a small price to pay.
Warren Senders
Medford
Today, approximately one out of every five Americans is suffering with a mental health issue; and approximately one in 25 adults is experiencing a serious mental illness that substantially interferes with one or more major life activities. In every story, there is strength and there is hope.
As CEO of Arbour Hospital and Branches Outpatient, my staff and I have the privilege of serving members of our community with mental illnesses that are often invisible to others. Since its inception in 1949, May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. This observance provides an opportunity for action to address the stigma preventing individuals from getting the care they need. Today, positive outcomes are not only possible… they are experienced every day.
What can we do to assist those in need of mental health care and treatment?
Listen and show understanding: If you suspect a loved one is struggling, listen to their story and encourage them to seek help.
Share the Crisis Response Line: 988 is the 24/7, free and confidential text, chat, talk support line. Military veterans may press ‘1’ for dedicated support. Suicide is often preventable when people at risk receive the support that they need and their story is heard.
In case of acute medical emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Call or text the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline at 833-773-2445 to get connected to local resources and services for mental health or substance use disorders.
Encourage students to pursue careers in mental health fields, whether through nursing, medical, clinical or vocational programs. We must inspire the next generation of talented, caring and compassionate professionals. Arbour Hospital is proud to partner with Boston College, Boston University, and Northeastern University for student education and training, ultimately employing many following graduation.
Working together, we can improve the lives of Americans suffering with mental health concerns. By speaking up, we help to shatter stigma, foster understanding and help others find their own path to healing. We invite you to speak up, share your story and show your strength.
Kurt Gunther, CEO
Arbour Hospital and Branches Outpatient
Jamaica Plain