Mental Health
Community Leaders to Facilitate Mental Health Discussion Series
In a concerted effort to address mental health awareness and support within the community, a series of discussion groups will commence on January 9, 2024, continuing through February 4, 2024. These sessions will be facilitated by Pastor Felipe Martinez and Judge Kelly Benjamin, focusing on mental health topics and encouraging open dialogue among participants.
Engaging the Community in Mental Health Conversations
The upcoming series aims to create a platform where community members can engage in meaningful conversations about mental health. While the primary focus is on mental health discussions, individuals dealing with substance issues are also welcome to participate. The initiative seeks to normalize these conversations and reduce the stigma often associated with mental health challenges.
Participants will have access to tools and methods designed to facilitate effective communication. One such method is the LEAP approach, developed by Dr. Xavier Amador, author of "I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help." LEAP stands for Listen, Empathize, Agree, and Partner, and it is particularly useful for engaging with individuals who may experience anosognosia, a condition that prevents them from recognizing their mental illness. The LEAP method encourages individuals to seek help and fosters a collaborative approach to mental health care.
Support from Local Organizations and Initiatives
The discussion series is supported by several local churches that have partnered to de-stigmatize mental health issues within the community. Additionally, a study guide developed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will be provided to participants, offering structured guidance for the discussions.
Kansas has been at the forefront of mental health care reform, having launched a new mental health care model that encompasses all community mental health centers across the state. This initiative, based on the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model, guarantees care irrespective of a person's ability to pay. The model was implemented following legislation signed by Governor Laura Kelly in 2021, making Kansas the first state to adopt this comprehensive approach.
Addressing the Growing Need for Mental Health Support
The need for more mental health care providers and support systems has become increasingly evident in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a rise in anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. The series arrives at a crucial time as communities grapple with these challenges, compounded by existing workplace stress and a reduction in available therapists and care providers.
To further bolster mental health initiatives, the Behavioral Health Center of Excellence has been established to foster collaboration between universities and mental health service providers. This collaboration aims to enhance the workforce and improve the quality of care available to those in need.
Promoting Empathetic Leadership and Workplace Well-being
The series will also touch on the importance of empathetic leadership in fostering a caring and supportive community environment. Key principles include active listening and compassion, which are essential for supportive management that can help normalize mental health discussions. Leaders are encouraged to share personal stories of stress and demonstrate that taking mental health days is acceptable.
The 5 Cs framework for emotionally healthy teams, with its emphasis on Connection and Coping, will be highlighted as a way to balance performance goals with personal boundaries. This framework aligns with encouraging one-on-one dialogues and creating a culture of care within organizations, ultimately contributing to stress and burnout awareness.
As the series unfolds, it promises to offer valuable insights and practical strategies for community members to engage in and support each other through mental health challenges. By facilitating open and honest discussions, the series endeavors to build a more inclusive and understanding community.