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October 18, 2017 By James Bush

Why Access Matters – Mental Health

Within the last decade, mental Illness has become a popular topic, especially due to the volume of mass shootings that have occurred in the last ten years. During this time, we have witnessed such mass shootings: Jared Loughner (Tucson Shooting), Seung Hui Cho (Virginia Tech Massacre), Elliot Rodger (Isla Vista Massacre), and Adam Lanza (Sandy Hook shooting).

Mental Health has many Disguises

The majority of individuals mentioned were diagnosed with a mental health disorder at some point. Prior to these tragic events, some of the individuals did receive a form of mental health treatment. However, most fell through the gaps and did not receive appropriate and consistent healthcare. This is not uncommon, especially when talking about mental health care. Beyond stigmas that currently exist within the community, affordability and availability of mental health care for marginalized groups, especially those living in poverty or below the poverty line make it easy for people to fall through the gaps of receiving adequate healthcare.

Many tragedies occur within American homes every day, each related to the inadequate care of mental health disorders. For example, domestic violence and substance abuse have been known to create traumatic experiences within the home (see Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES)). The key takeaway, when addressing things like substance abuse or domestic violence, is to look at assault, substance abuse, or other maladaptive behaviors as symptoms or mechanisms that perpetuate a pre-existing condition. The lack of care of these conditions leads to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders that can have not only a negative impact on the individual but on family, friends, co-workers, and communities.

We know that treatment options exist. We know what happens when these diseases are not treated. But the important question is how are we preventing maladaptive behaviors and ensuring all people are receiving adequate care?

Adequate Care and Mental Health Care Access

Education is one of the most powerful weapons with which we can equip ourselves to help care for those who need mental health care. We’ve compiled a couple tips for those seeking care for themselves or for a loved one.

Tips for those Seeking Care:

  • Mental health is not something you need to be ashamed of or blame yourself for – seeking adequate care from a professional is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family.
  • Do not be afraid to ask questions.
  • Be honest with your healthcare provider. If a medication is giving you adverse symptoms or does not seem to be working, talk to your healthcare provider.
  • Locate support communities – online and/or off.
  • Research different techniques that can be used for support.

Tips for those Seeking Care for a Loved One:

  • Education. Education. Familiarize yourself with what your loved one’s mental health condition entails, its symptoms, and care.
  • Research different techniques that can be used for support.
  • Locate support communities – online and/or off.
  • Offer encouragement to attend doctor’s appointments
  • Meet their doctor or clinician and establish a relationship with them.
  • Learn their treatment plan.
  • Become a member of their support team.
  • Offer your support, love, and care.
  • Rid yourself of any stereotypes or stigmas you might be holding onto when it comes to mental health.

 

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STARS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, culture, religion or creed, socioeconomic status, language, age, sexual orientation, or national origin. No one shall be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any of STARS’ programs or activities. STARS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

This agency is funded, in part, by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the Tennessee Department of Education and by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth. This project is funded under a grant contract with the State of Tennessee.
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Copyright © 2021 STARS Nashville

STARS is committed to the HOPE, HEALTH, and CONNECTION of the youth, families, and communities we serve. Our counselors are able to provide tele-support during these unprecedented times.

If you would like to learn more about these services, even if your school is not currently served by STARS, please contact us directly for an initial assessment.

For further resources, please contact any of the following support providers:

• Youth Villages Mobile Crisis: 1-866-791-9222
• TN Statewide Crisis Services: 1-855-CRISIS-1 (or 1-855-274-7471)
• National Suicide Prevention Line: 1-800-273-8255
• Text HOME to 741741
• National HOPE Line Network: 1-800-442-4673
• 2-1-1 Help Line: http://tn211.mycommunitypt.com/

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