As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness month, how can we continue to shine a light on this important topic and break the stigmas surrounding it? Here are some ways to create more understanding and positive action.

Learn more about mental health.  Read books, watch videos, listen to podcasts, or attend webinars on various topics related to mental health.  NAMI Iowa and the Healthiest State Initiative’s Make it OK campaign are good resources, as well as Employee & Family Resources.

Spark conversations and support others.  Initiate open, compassionate dialogue about mental health with loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Create a safe space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences and struggles. Show others that you care and support them by listening to them without judgement, offering encouragement and empathy, respecting their boundaries and privacy, and helping them find resources and assistance if they want it.

Don’t contribute to mental health stigmas. Unfortunately, our society still has a lot of stigma and discrimination around mental health.  This can prevent people from seeking help or speaking opening about their issues.  You can help break the stigma by educating others about mental health facts and myths, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions, and fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding. Mental health is health—just like diabetes, hypertension, or other health related conditions.

Check in with yourself and prioritize self-care. To help others, you must also help yourself.  It is important to take some time every day to check in with yourself and notice your emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations. Embrace self-care as a crucial aspect of mental well-being.  Discover activities that bring you joy, peace, and rejuvenation. Practice them regularly to replenish your energy and nurture your emotional balance.

Seek support.  If you are navigating your own mental health journey, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional.  Drake health plan participants can access mental health services and take advantage of virtual care visits with Broadlawns providers. Broadlawns Medical Center offers a comprehensive delivery system for mental health services in Central Iowa. Virtual Care Visits provide a safe and convenient way for you to access care through your existing provider or to establish care with a new healthcare provider. Broadlawns also offers Outpatient Mental Health Services.  And Drake’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers a wide range of resources, including free confidential counseling, self-assessment tools, and a mobile app.  EAPs are an often-under-utilized employee benefit available to Drake employees and anyone living in their households.

Let’s create a culture that fosters empathy, understanding, and support—where everyone feels valued and empowered to prioritize their mental well-being.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources