Mental Health Services and Education
Mental health heavily influences an individual’s quality of life. So much so, that poor mental health can not only lead to poor physical and emotional health, but it can also lead to a variety of disruptions to their overall success and well-being.
Without the proper resources, individuals struggling with their own mental health can often find themselves struggling to cope with life stressors which can in turn lead to financial struggles, job loss, risk of self-harm, and more. These unaddressed, unrecognized, and under-resourced mental health problems within communities can play a negative influence on homelessness, poverty, employment, safety, and the local economy.
Community education can help mitigate the stigma.
Community education can help mitigate the stigma associated with mental health conditions while also fostering an inclusive community for our neighbors. Not only that, but providing education on the topic of mental health can physically save lives. Studies show that community involvement has evidence toward improving both mental health and overall wellness across all social-ecological levels.
Budgets are moral documents and show us the things we value. Our current spending on mental health shows we have a long way to go before truly embracing mental health solutions for all.
Did you know, Illinois spends relatively little on community-based treatment programs: $77 per person, compared to the national average of $133?
Source: will.illinois.edu
Our Work
Our work coordinates the current efforts of social service agencies. We also advocate for more investment in health solutions like Crisis Stabilization Units (CSU’s), pre-arrest diversion, and harm reduction strategies. We work with organizations and experts in the field to help offer information on mental health services, educate community members, and provide peer and family support.
Mental Health Resources:
World Health Organization – Mental Health: Strengthening Our Response
NAMI: The Importance of Community and Mental Health
LEARN MORE
[hfe_template id=’2773′]