Mental Health Awareness Month, observed annually in May since 1949, is a globally recognized mental health awareness event first started by Mental Health America (not to be confused with World Mental Health Day, which is observed in October).

While stigma around mental health and treatment has decreased in recent years, there are still people who hesitate to take steps to address mental health challenges, seek care, and talk about mental health with friends, family, and even their medical providers. Given the additional stress and uncertainty that have accompanied the past few years, it is as important now as it has ever been to talk about mental health.  Remember, it is OK to not be OK.

There are several organizations that offer tools and resources to support others and be supported.

The Healthiest State Initiative’s Make It OK is a community campaign that encourages everyone to talk more openly about mental illness in hopes of de-stigmatizing it so individuals will feel more open to seek care.  They are offering a free Make It OK virtual presentation on Monday, May 15 from 11 a.m. to noon.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helps raise awareness and combat stigma. NAMI has published a guide, identifying the 2023 Mental Health Awareness Month theme “More than Enough,”­ focusing on messages of hope and inclusion.

Drake’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers a wide range of resources. EAPs are an often-under-utilized employee benefit. Drake pays for this benefit, so Drake employees (and anyone living in their households) can have easy access to these resources. If you have never explored this wonderful benefit, take some time to do so. There is something for everyone—including free confidential counseling, webinars, podcasts, a blog, self-assessment tools, and a mobile app.

Beginning in May, our EAP vendor, Employee and Family Resources (EFR), is offering a new benefit called Togetherall—an online support peer community.  Connect with others for support, keep a journal, set goals, take assessments, and learn how to adjust to life’s ups and downs with structured courses. Moderated by professionals, Togetherall is available 24/7 and free to use.  Join a virtual webinar on Wednesday, May 10 for details on how you can access this platform and online community.

Check out this month’s HR Monthly for more information on Mental Health Awareness Month events and resources.

Linda Feiden, Human Resources