LGBTQ+ Facts
Even though Martinsburg is a generally friendly place, there are not many LGBTQ+ resources for its locals and visitors. In West Virginia in general, same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1976, and same-sex marriage has been recognized since 2014. However, West Virginia statutes do not address discrimination due to sexual orientation or gender identity. On the other hand, the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County determined that employment discrimination against LGBTQ+ people is, in fact, illegal.
Mental Health in Martinsburg, West Virginia
In West Virginia, mental health issues are increasing due to social challenges and not having enough providers.
According to recent data, West Virginia consistently rates among states with the high percentages of folks having mental health struggles, experiencing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
The U.S. News’ 2021 Healthiest Communities rankings found that West Virginia has one of the country’s highest rates of deaths of despair, including deaths attributed to suicide, drug overdoses, and alcohol-related diseases. In addition, about 19% of West Virginia adults said their mental health was poor for at least 14 days for a month, and approximately 1 in 4 Medicare beneficiaries in West Virginia experienced depression.
The Healthiest Communities analysis, which analyzes counties and how they perform in comparison to each other in regards to mental health, assigned a score of approximately 28 out of 100 for West Virginia. Compared to other states in the nation, West Virginia had five of the lowest-scoring counties for mental health.
Since there is a lack of providers, patients may have to wait months before receiving mental health treatment. This applies to adults, children, and youth. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in child and youth suicide attempts, and finding outpatient psychiatric care can be challenging even for this age group.
If you are looking for a psychologist for kids in Martinsburg, there is still help available and treatment options. Be sure to browse our listings at LGBTQ and ALL to find a qualified mental health care provider in your area.
Top Features for Martinsburg, West Virginia
Martinsburg is a charming destination in the county seat of West Virginia’s Berkeley County. It is found within the stunning Shenandoah Valley and is the most significant metropolis on the Eastern Panhandle. One of its top attractions is the preserved Martinsburg Roadhouse, the country’s only remaining cast-iron-framed railroad structure. In addition, there are other historic sites like the Belle Boyd House, which is a preservation of the childhood home of the Civil War spy who has connections to Stonewall Jackson.
Facts
- Martinsburg had become a significant hub of the railroad industry and its workers.
- This city has one of the only remaining puppet theatres in the nation.
- Martinsburg is located in an area where there is a lot of fruit-growing, especially apples. It also has diversified manufacturing, including cement, glass, plastics, and packaging.
History/Data
In the early 18th century, the Tuscarora settled in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle area.
Martinsburg’s incorporation traces back to 1778. During this time, the County seat was established in the village of Martinsburg. It was named after Thomas Bryan Martin, Lord Fairfax’s nephew. Then, in the 1840s, the B&O Railroad arrived, and Martinsburg and Berkeley County began to thrive.
The current population of Martinsburg is estimated to be 17,406, based on projections from the latest U.S. Census.