MARBLEHEAD – At a recent Board of Health meeting, Marblehead officials explored the potential of introducing Bloom, a mobile app designed to strengthen public health communication, provide support resources, and improve emergency response within the community.
The discussion highlighted how Bloom could serve as a centralized platform for residents to access mental health resources, local health updates, and community wellness tools. The app is already in use in other communities, such as Peabody, where it has been praised for its ability to connect residents with services ranging from substance abuse support to youth wellness initiatives.
Board members noted that Marblehead, like many towns, has seen rising concerns around youth mental health, substance use, and access to timely resources. Bloom was presented as one way to bridge gaps in outreach and make information more accessible.
“Every citizen in Peabody has access to it. All employees have access to it. So you can work on personal well-being, mental and behavioral health, parenting, elder care, and financial care. It also allows every individual access to therapy sessions,” Public Health Director Andrew Petty said.
The app could also assist during public health emergencies, such as severe weather events or outbreaks, by delivering real-time alerts and guidance directly to residents’ phones.
The app would be funded in part by a $15,000 opioid funds grant. It would provide free resources to Marblehead’s 12,000 employees and 20,000 residents. This includes four free counseling sessions as well.
“After the fourth one, they will help you use your insurance to get a primary care counselor,” Petty said.
He said the app has already been approved by the state for use.
“It offers self guided video therapy sessions, journaling. It was designed by a clinical psychologist, and it could be available for all,” said Board member Dr. Amanda Ritvo.
Petty referenced neighboring towns that have already implemented Bloom, noting positive feedback on its ease of use and the confidentiality protections built into the platform. Residents in those towns have used it to anonymously seek information about sensitive issues, such as addiction recovery, without stigma or barriers.
The Board of Health agreed to continue discussions with Bloom representatives and explore potential funding sources, including grants, to cover the costs of launching the app locally. Community input will also be sought, with the goal of ensuring that the app reflects Marblehead’s unique needs.
“This is absolutely the parallel to what’s the grieving process going on with the town is really ideal,” Board of Health Chair Dr. Tom Massaro said. “It has to truly connect people to help.”
If approved, Bloom could be rolled out later this year as part of Marblehead’s broader efforts to expand access to health and wellness resources.
A motion was approved at the meeting for Petty to “encourage you to move expeditiously as possible to evaluate and implement this program.”
