Keeping Ashland Healthy - Episode 133 - Balance Part 2

Keeping Ashland Healthy - Episode 133 - Balance Part 2

What can we learn from those who have battled addiction and mental health challenges when they talk about balance? This conversation on "Keeping Ashland Healthy" picks up where a previous episode left off, taking a closer look at what balance actually looks like in real life—beyond buzzwords and neat 50/50 work–life clichés. David Ross chats with Jennifer English, just two weeks into her new community partnerships and wellness role, and clinician Alyse Schroeder.

Together they talk through why no single agency can meet every need, and why partnerships across Ashland County are so vital. As David reminds everyone, the board funds services but doesn’t provide them directly, so “everything we do is about partnerships” — from funded agencies like Appleseed, Catholic Charities and ACADA to libraries, parks, schools and churches.

Alyse highlights that, even in a small rural county, there’s “so much connection in this community,” tying it back to the famous line, “the opposite of addiction is connection.” They break down what it means to support the whole person: housing, employment, physical health, spiritual life, friendships and, crucially, purpose. Therapy might be an hour a week — but what about the other 167 hours?

There’s plenty of relatable chat about over-focusing on one area of life, even on “healthy” things like exercise or nutrition, and how that can throw everything else out of balance. Jennifer uses images from yoga, strength training, gardening and even hotel amenities to show how small, intentional adjustments can prevent burnout. Running through it all is a simple but powerful message: no one recovers or stays well alone. Wellness grows through relationships, community resources and everyday acts of care.

It’s gentle, practical encouragement for anyone trying to keep their own balance steady. So, what small shift could you make today to feel just a little more balanced?