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On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, with the news that the more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on June 19. Read more about the historical legacy of the holiday at the National Museum of African American History & Culture.
At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), we advocate for the creation of a mentally healthy work environment that supports all employees, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. By revising policies, initiating conversations and taking proactive action, Central Pennsylvania businesses can foster a more inclusive atmosphere.
“At PPI, we understand the intricate interplay between mental health and every facet of life, particularly in our work environments,” shared Ruth S. Moore, director of community engagement, diversity & inclusion. “Inclusivity and acceptance aren’t just nice to have. They are essential. They fuel healthier mental landscapes, reduce stress and elevate engagement and dedication. As an organization, we stand firm on the belief that an environment that prioritizes mental health and celebrates diversity isn’t just morally correct — it’s a smart business strategy. Such an atmosphere encourages innovation, creativity and productivity, molding a workplace where every individual is empowered to thrive.”
Navigating today’s business world requires a keen understanding of diversity and inclusion. It’s no longer enough to merely open doors to different groups. Today, the most successful companies actively court diversity, knowing that a wide array of experiences and perspectives can significantly enhance the work environment and the company’s overall performance.
Enhanced Creativity and Problem-solving: A diverse workforce encompasses a broad array of experiences, skills, perspectives and insights. This diverse pool of knowledge and experiences sparks innovation, creativity and strategic thinking. Employee relationships are also strengthened when coworkers can connect based on their diverse backgrounds or shared experiences, which improves workplace collaboration.
Smarter Decision-making: Diversity enables a wider range of sources and experiences to draw from, leading to more informed decisions and better business outcomes. Diverse individuals are known to process facts more carefully, contributing to smarter, data-driven decisions.
Increased Profits and Productivity: Inclusive companies often attract ambitious professionals, resulting in a more motivated, efficient workforce, and increased productivity and profitability. A survey from Indeed, a global job site with over 250 million monthly unique visitors, found that 55% of job seekers deem it highly important to work at a company that prioritizes diversity and inclusion.
A multifaceted approach is essential to support LGBTQ+ mental health in the workplace. Incorporating these steps will not only foster a more productive, effective and loyal team but also enhance overall business performance.
Are you a LGBTQ+ worker experiencing discrimination in the workplace? The Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition offers a guide to workers facing discrimination and the actionable steps they can take to respond.
Find the guide on their website.
Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is proud to advocate for accessible, inclusive mental health care for all. We understand that for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) community, finding resources tailored to their unique experiences and needs can be a challenge. That’s why we’re dedicating this blog post to sharing a list of resources available in Central Pennsylvania for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking support.
LGBT Center of Central PA
The LGBT Center employs four full-time staff: an Executive Director, a Director of Training & Education, a Director of Youth Programs and a Youth Programs Coordinator. With this small but dedicated team, the Center serves over 2,000 people each year across Dauphin, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties, and seeks to be responsive to the changing needs of our communities in our programming and our strategic priorities.
GLO
GLO is a community resource center for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults of color, centering the experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ men of color and trans women of color. They provide free and confidential STI/HIV testing on-site, virtual therapy, access to PrEP and a variety of other social services. GLO is committed to reducing the community’s HIV viral load by testing and linking individuals to HIV care and prevention.
Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition
The Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition is committed to building a supportive and enriching community abundant in opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals and those with a stake in creating a more inclusive Lancaster County.
PFLAG York
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, or PFLAG York promotes the health and well-being of all lesbians, gay, bisexual, transgender and other queer individuals and their parents, family and friends through support, education and advocacy. They provide the opportunity for dialogue about sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and act to create a society that is healthy and respectful of human diversity. PFLAG York will not give up until society accepts all its members as equals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.
Rainbow Rose Center
The Rainbow Rose Center fosters an environment of inclusion, equity and health where all LGBTQ+ community members thrive in York County. They envision an inclusive community where all York County individuals feel safe and welcome in their everyday lives.
TransCentralPA
TransCentralPA is committed to providing advocacy and caring support for transgender individuals, their significant others, families, friends and allies. TransCentralPA also provides gender education and information to businesses, organizations, educational institutions and governmental agencies. Their monthly gatherings provide a safe and nurturing place for members and guests to meet together to better understand, accept and take pride and joy in their transgender lives.
Call BlackLine
Call BlackLine provides a space for peer support, counseling, reporting of mistreatment, witnessing and affirming the lived experiences for folx who are most impacted by systematic oppression with an LGBTQ+ Black Femme Lens. Call BlackLine prioritizes BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color).
LGBT National Help Center
All of LGBT National Help Center’s support volunteers identify as part of the LGBTQ+ family, and are here to serve the entire community, by providing free and confidential peer support, information and local resources through national hotlines and online programs.
SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline
Talk and be heard at the SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline. They connect LGBTQ+ older people who want to talk with friendly responders ready to listen. The Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Spanish, with translation in 180 languages.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project’s mission is to end suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. Their counselors will listen without judgment. All of your conversations are confidential, and you can share as much or as little as you’d like.
Trans Lifeline
Trans Lifeline is a trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support and resources they need to survive and thrive.
“In the journey towards mental wellness, remember you’re not alone. Reaching out isn’t a sign of defeat, but a victory over stigma. At PPI, we’re your allies, steadfast in the belief that everyone deserves understanding and compassionate care.”
– Ruth S. Moore, director of community engagement, diversity & inclusion
If you’d like to learn more about the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute’s approach to LGBTQ+ mental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, 866-746-2496 or through our website. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.
As Pride Month unfolds, a time dedicated to celebrating victories and acknowledging the struggles of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) community, we must shine a spotlight on an issue often not spoken about enough — transgender mental health. At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), our commitment to deepening the understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by the transgender community is unwavering. We are equally devoted to promoting strategies for resilience and personal growth.
Transgender individuals, those who identify as a gender different from their assigned sex at birth, confront unique societal, personal and systemic challenges that can significantly impact their mental health. Pervasive realities of discrimination, stigma and systemic bias can give rise to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression and distress. Alarmingly, suicide rates among transgender individuals are higher than the general population.
Research underscores the magnitude of these challenges. For instance, a sobering study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh in 2020 revealed that approximately 85% of transgender adolescents had seriously considered suicide, and over half had made at least one suicide attempt. This underscores the urgent need to address mental health issues within this vulnerable population.
Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. At PPI, we believe there are three key areas that need our attention:
Lack of Acceptance
Stigma and discrimination are among the most significant obstacles to mental health for transgender individuals. These can appear in various forms, from microaggressions and harassment to explicit violence and rejection by loved ones. The persistent battle against stigma can often lead to chronic stress, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression.
Healthcare Inequality
Global healthcare systems often fail to meet the specific needs of transgender individuals due to a lack of training and awareness among healthcare professionals and discriminatory practices and policies. This frequently results in subpar care, delayed or inaccessible treatments and a deep mistrust in healthcare providers.
In Pennsylvania, Penn State Health offers services that help to meet the specific healthcare needs of the transgender community.
Internalized Negative Beliefs
Internalized transphobia and transmisia can stem from absorbing negative societal beliefs and attitudes about being transgender. This can lead to diminished self-esteem, self-worth and a negative impact on overall mental health.
Dealing with mental health is a complex process for everyone, and for the transgender community, it becomes even more difficult due to specific stressors like gender dysphoria. This necessitates unique coping strategies. Below are a handful of tactics that can help alleviate these challenges and promote mental well-being:
Clothing and Personal Style
Transgender individuals may find relief from gender dysphoria by dressing in the clothing of their preferred gender. This can include ‘under-dressing’ or making subtle changes to personal style, such as adopting a new hairstyle, using skincare products or applying subtle makeup. These measures can serve as a reminder of their identity and alleviate feelings of distress. It’s also worth noting that engaging in these activities gradually can help prepare for an eventual social transition.
Digital Presence
Engaging online as one’s preferred gender can be a helpful way to express oneself and interact with others in a safe and understanding environment. This can include participation in online forums, social media platforms and support groups.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
For some, the use of gender-affirming hormone therapy can be an effective way to align physical characteristics with their chosen gender identity. This can help reduce the dysphoria experienced by individuals whose physical appearance doesn’t align with their gender identity. It is critical, however, to undertake this step under the guidance of healthcare professionals who can monitor the process and provide necessary support and advice.
At PPI we promote the following strategies to create a meaningful difference:
Increasing Accessibility to Culturally Competent Healthcare
The need for healthcare services that are informed, sensitive and responsive to the unique experiences of transgender individuals cannot be overstated. This involves educating healthcare professionals about transgender health issues, creating safe and non-discriminatory healthcare environments and adopting practices that affirm and respect patients’ gender identities.
Community Support
Having a robust, supportive community can have a profound role in promoting mental health. Peer support groups, online communities and organizations dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues can offer a safe space for transgender individuals to share their experiences, feel validated and gain encouragement.
Mental Health Services
Mental health services can help transgender individuals understand their feelings and thoughts and learn effective coping strategies. Access to mental health services tailored to their specific needs can also play a key role in addressing mental health concerns.
Advocacy and Allyship
Support from allies, who might not identify as LGBTQ+ but stand in solidarity with the community, is critical. Allies can play a significant role in challenging stigmatizing attitudes, advocating for rights and inclusivity and providing emotional support to transgender individuals.
As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s also reflect on the unique mental health challenges faced by transgender individuals. Together, our collective efforts can create a world where every transgender person feels accepted, supported and free to express their identity. At PPI, we’re dedicated to this cause. Together, we can construct a safer, more inclusive world for all.
As we navigate our way through the 21st century, we recognize that the promotion of understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations is more important than ever. Among these orientations, bisexuality is one that often tends to be misunderstood or even stigmatized, leading to several misconceptions. At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), we aim to educate and empower our community about these matters, shedding light on the truth behind these stereotypes. Today, we’ll delve into the world of bisexuality, examine its relationship with mental health and provide guidance on how you can support bisexual individuals in your life.
Myth #1: Bisexuality is a phase or a sign of confusion.
One of the most prevalent misconceptions about bisexuality is that it is a temporary phase or an indication of confusion. This belief can trivialize and invalidate the experiences of bisexual individuals. The reality is, bisexuality, like other orientations, is a valid, enduring identity. It’s not a phase someone will “grow out of” nor is it a sign of indecisiveness.
Myth #2: Bisexual individuals are promiscuous and unfaithful.
Another harmful stereotype is that bisexual individuals are inherently promiscuous or incapable of maintaining monogamous relationships. This stereotype erroneously conflates sexual orientation with personal behavior. It is important to note that sexual orientation, whether one identifies as bisexual, homosexual, heterosexual or anything else, does not predetermine one’s values, behaviors or beliefs about relationships.
Myth #3: There’s no such thing as bisexuality.
This pervasive myth, especially targeting men, asserts that bisexuality doesn’t exist and those claiming to be bisexual are simply “in transition” or pretending. This perspective erases the complexities of human sexuality, confining it to a binary.
Scientific research, such as a study from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, provides strong evidence against this myth. The study found that, unlike heterosexual or gay men who were predominantly aroused by one gender, bisexual men demonstrated arousal to both genders in both self-reports and objective physiological measurements.
This research underscores that bisexuality is a genuine, distinct sexual orientation. It’s vital to reject simplistic, binary views and acknowledge and respect the diverse experiences of sexuality, including bisexuality.
The stigma and discrimination attached to these misconceptions about bisexuality can lead to minority stress, which can, in turn, impact mental health negatively. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, bisexual individuals are more likely to experience anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges compared to their heterosexual counterparts. It’s important to understand that these disparities are not because of bisexuality itself but rather because of societal attitudes and prejudices.
When discussing mental health and bisexuality, it’s crucial to acknowledge the unique risk factors that can affect the mental well-being of this community. These risk factors aren’t inherently tied to bisexuality but are associated with societal reactions and prejudices that bisexual individuals may encounter.
Coming Out
The process of revealing one’s bisexuality can introduce mental health risks, especially when young individuals face nonsupportive environments.
Rejection
Rejection from family, friends or community after coming out can be profoundly distressing, affecting mental well-being.
Trauma
Bisexual individuals can experience trauma due to discrimination, including homophobia and biphobia, potentially increasing their risk of PTSD.
Substance Use
Substance misuse, often used as a coping mechanism, is a significant concern in the LGBTQ+ community, including bisexual individuals.
Homelessness
Bisexual individuals, particularly youth, face a higher risk of homelessness, often stemming from family rejection and discrimination.
Suicide
Suicidal thoughts and attempts are higher among the LGBTQ+ community, including those identifying as bisexual.
Inadequate Mental Health Care
Unique mental health challenges faced by bisexual individuals are often overlooked in mental health care, and fear of discrimination can deter them from seeking help. Culturally competent, inclusive mental health providers are key to addressing these challenges.
“We recognize and value the unique mental health challenges faced by the bisexual community. We strive to ensure quality and accessible care that respects and supports the diverse identities of our patients. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where no one hesitates to seek help due to fear of harassment or discrimination. Your identity is acknowledged here, your experiences are validated and your mental health is our priority.”
– Evalina Santos, Outpatient Resource Coordinator, PPI
PPI offers support to not only those who identify as bisexual but their families as well. You can learn more by contacting the admissions department at 866-746-2496.
As allies, it’s crucial to acknowledge and understand these realities. Here are some ways to support bisexual friends, family or loved ones:
Advocate
Use your voice to challenge biphobic comments or attitudes when you encounter them. Stand against discrimination and prejudice.
Education
Understand what bisexuality is and what it is not. Knowledge is the first step in dismantling stereotypes and misconceptions.
Encourage Open Conversation
Promote a safe, nonjudgmental space where your loved ones can express their feelings, fears and experiences. Active listening goes a long way in showing your support.
Mental Health Support
Understand that your loved one may face unique mental health challenges. Encourage them to seek professional help and reassure them there’s no shame in doing so.
Validate Their Identity
Bisexual individuals often face ‘bisexual erasure’ or ‘bisexual invisibility’, where their identity is dismissed or overlooked. Acknowledging and affirming their identity is a simple yet powerful act of support.
Understanding bisexuality and its relationship with mental health is a crucial part of creating a more accepting society. By dispelling myths and promoting understanding, we can all contribute to reducing the stigma and promoting mental health and well-being among our bisexual loved ones. At PPI, we stand firm in our commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for all, irrespective of their sexual orientation.
Advanced Bi+ Allyship
https://pflag.org/resource/pao-advancedbiallyshiprecording/
Embarking on the journey to become an ally requires sincere introspection about personal biases—a process that evolves as the participant matures as an ally. The PFLAG Advanced Bi+ Allyship Guide, a 201-level training module, aims to further the reader’s understanding of the bisexual+ community—those who can be attracted to more than one gender—and equip them with resources and knowledge to become a stronger bi+ ally.
Bisexual Glossary
https://bi.org/en/glossary
The bisexual glossary on Bi.org is a project of the Bi Foundation, also known as The American Institute of Bisexuality (AIB), a 501(c)(3) private foundation that supports and sponsors projects likely to promote bi visibility and improved understanding of bisexuality through education, research, training and outreach.
Resource Guide to Coming Out as Bisexual (Human Rights Campaign)
https://www.hrc.org/resources/resource-guide-to-coming-out-as-bisexual
The resource guide for coming out as bisexual from the Human Rights Campaign is designed to prepare individuals for the potential challenges of coming out as bisexual and to provide the tools to come out and live openly wherever and whenever the reader is safe, able and ready.
Understanding Bisexuality
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/understanding-bisexuality/
The Trevor Project provides a comprehensive guide to understanding bisexuality.
As we enter Pride Month this June, it is a time to commemorate the leaps in progress that have been made since the Stonewall Riots of 1969, but also to remind ourselves of the challenges that remain. It is also essential to recognize the intersection of mental health and the LGBTQ+ community. At the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), we provide high-quality behavioral health services, which include recognizing and addressing the unique mental health concerns within the LGBTQ+ community in Central Pennsylvania.
During Pride Month, the focus is often on acceptance from others – ensuring legal rights, combating discrimination and creating an inclusive society. But at the heart of this fight is a deeply personal journey towards self-acceptance and self-love.
Coming out to oneself is often the first, and sometimes the most challenging step for many within the LGBTQ+ community. This journey of self-acceptance involves recognizing, understanding and embracing one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It’s about breaking free from societal norms or expectations and embracing one’s own truth. It’s a brave endeavor, one that requires strength, resilience and love – love for oneself.
Self-acceptance is not only about accepting one’s sexuality or gender identity but also about embracing every part of oneself, including one’s mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health can sometimes add an extra layer of challenge, which is why it’s crucial to promote self-love, acceptance and support for mental health within the LGBTQ+ community.
Studies show that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to experience mental health issues compared to their heterosexual counterparts. This disparity is largely due to the minority stress experienced by this community – the unique strain related to the stigma, prejudice and discrimination encountered by minority groups.
LGBTQ+ individuals are more than twice as likely as heterosexual individuals to have a mental health disorder in their lifetime. They are 2.5 times more likely to experience depression, anxiety and substance misuse compared with heterosexual individuals.
– American Psychiatric Association
During Pride Month, we seek to lessen this burden by promoting an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusivity, celebrating diversity and advocating for equal rights. By doing so, we hope to reduce the minority stress experienced by the LGBTQ+ community and improve mental health outcomes.
Embracing one’s identity wholeheartedly contributes significantly to one’s overall mental health. Positive identity formation, which comes from a place of self-love and acceptance, can lead to improved self-esteem, decreased anxiety and lower instances of depression.
As part of our commitment to meet the changing behavioral healthcare needs of the region, PPI seeks to create a safe, supportive environment for all. We believe in a comprehensive approach to mental health care, ensuring that our services are inclusive and welcoming to all individuals, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.
Promoting LGBTQ+ acceptance can be a personal journey as much as a collective endeavor. It is about making the world safer and more inclusive for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Below are three practical tips you can follow to support the LGBTQ+ community and improve the mental health of your LGBTQ+ friends and family in Central Pennsylvania:
Education
The first step toward acceptance is understanding. It’s crucial to educate oneself about the LGBTQ+ community, its struggles, history and culture. This can involve reading books and articles or watching documentaries and movies that accurately represent the community’s experiences. In the process, you can learn about important concepts such as sexual orientation, gender identity and the difference between these two. Also, familiarizing yourself with correct terminology and language is key to respectful and inclusive communication.
Promote Visibility and Representation
Supporting and advocating for the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in all aspects of life is crucial. This could involve supporting LGBTQ+ artists, authors, politicians or businesses. In your workplace or school, it might mean advocating for inclusive policies or representation in leadership roles. Representation validates identities and challenges stereotypes, leading to broader acceptance in society.
Active Allyship
Beyond passively accepting, it’s important to be an active ally. Stand up against homophobic or transphobic comments and behaviors, support LGBTQ+ rights legislation and participate in local Pride events. Use your voice to amplify LGBTQ+ concerns but remember to let them lead the conversation about their own experiences. And importantly, listen and learn – being an ally often means being open to being corrected and educated.
Remember, promoting acceptance is not a one-time act, but a consistent practice of empathy, respect and support. Each step taken contributes to creating a world that respects and cherishes diversity.
You can learn more by connecting with the following organizations:
Anti-Violence Project
AVP empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and HIV-affected communities and allies to end all forms of violence through organizing and education and support survivors through counseling and advocacy.
LGBT Center of Central PA
The LGBT Center of Central PA offers a variety of programming for LGBTQ+ communities. Their mission is to foster inclusive communities and holistic well-being for LGBTQ+ people through social, educational and cultural engagement.
Matthew Shepard Foundation
The Matthew Shepard Foundation’s mission is to amplify the story of Matthew Shepard to inspire individuals, organizations, and communities to embrace the dignity and equality of all people.
Out & Equal
Out & Equal is the premier organization working exclusively on LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Through their worldwide programs, Fortune 500 partnerships and annual Workplace Summit conference, they help LGBTQ+ people thrive and support organizations in creating a culture of belonging for all.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.
Straight for Equality
Straight for Equality is a national outreach and education program created to empower new allies who don’t necessarily have a family connection to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community.
As we move through this Pride Month, let’s celebrate the strides we’ve made in the journey towards acceptance, both from others and within ourselves. Let’s continue to work towards a society where everyone feels loved, accepted and proud of who they are.
PPI offers support to not only those who identify as bisexual but their families as well. You can learn more by contacting the admissions department at 866-746-2496.
“Everybody knows somebody who’s been affected by mental illness or an addiction, and letting folks know that you’re aware these issues exist, you’re a safe person to talk to, can be very useful,” said Dr. Erika F.H. Saunders, a leading mental health expert and professor and chair of the department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at the Penn State College of Medicine. This powerful statement underlines the universal impact of mental health issues and the importance of open discussions and support. In a world where mental health often carries a stigma, understanding and support from each one of us can make a significant difference.
In this article, guided by Dr. Saunders’ insights, we delve into how education, support systems and modern technology can make mental health care more accessible and effective. We will also explore why it’s crucial for everyone to be part of the solution in enhancing mental wellness in our communities. Discover how you can contribute to breaking down barriers and building a more supportive environment for mental health.
Dr. Saunders explains that education is vital to understanding mental health. She said that by educating people, we can help them see that mental health issues are not different from physical health problems. This approach enables everyone to treat mental health with the same seriousness as physical health.
Dr. Saunders explained that it is important to highlight in education that “Mental illness and behavioral disorders are just like physical conditions,” and that they occur because of medical reasons.
When asked about expanding their knowledge, she advises patients and families to rely on their medical providers and trusted sources. Below is a short list of trusted information outlets:
By teaching people about mental health, we can remove the shame and fear that often come with these conditions.
Dr. Saunders highlights how advertisement campaigns and public figures who talk openly about their struggles can significantly improve public awareness.
Senator John Fetterman’s openness about his struggles with depression, particularly following a stroke, is a prime example of how public figures can influence the mental health conversation. By sharing his journey, Fetterman has shown that mental health issues don’t discriminate and can affect anyone, even those in high public office. His honesty not only helps to destigmatize depression but also encourages others to seek the help they need. Fetterman’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of transparency in public life and its positive impact on widespread mental health awareness.
“Depression is so sinister because it convinces you that even though you won, you actually lost,” shared Fetterman on the social platform X in October 2023. “I was able to get help, and I have a duty and a privilege to have this conversation with anyone who’ll listen.”
Beyond advertising campaigns and outreach by public figures, community programs and local support play a prominent role in helping to grow the community’s knowledge about mental health issues. Programs like Mental Health First Aid, supported by the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) and Penn State Health, show how communities can work together to support mental health. These efforts ensure people can get help without feeling judged.
Awareness doesn’t end with celebrity or community engagement programs but extends to conversations in our stores, jobs, schools, religious centers, and homes.
Dr. Saunders discusses the challenges people face when trying to get mental health care, such as logistical issues and stigma. Support needs to be accessible and inclusive. Dr. Saunders emphasizes the importance of local resources, like the Mental Health Support Group at PPI or available school programs found through onsite counselors, which are key in giving timely and effective support. These local efforts ensure people have the help they need when needed, leading to a healthier community.
“The first thing to recognize is that resources are available whether or not you have insurance.” She explained, “The first place to start is your primary care office.”
To enhance access to mental health care, Dr. Saunders highlights key barriers and offers strategies to overcome them:
Transportation Barriers
Use county resources that provide transportation for medical appointments.
Over-reliance on a Single Provider
Telehealth / Internet Access Challenges
Visit public libraries, which may offer the necessary facilities for confidential telehealth appointments.
Taking Time Off Work
Request a medical note to inform your employer that you are undergoing treatment for a medical condition. This helps secure the necessary time off without disclosing specific details.
“Addressing barriers to mental health care is crucial,” said Dr. Saunders. “We must ensure access to resources, support diverse care teams, and make services inclusive. Overcoming these hurdles is key to effective treatment.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Saunders is optimistic about the future of mental health care, especially about better and more personalized treatment. “In the next five to 10 years, I see improvements in connecting people to mental health care. We’ll ensure they receive the right type of care from the right professionals at the right time and are guided by the best treatments available,” she shares.
Digital tools, like apps and online services, will continue to be a part of our mental health care if used carefully and with professional advice. There are many tools out there now, but not all are based in scientific evidence. She shared, “The current AI-based tools are not a replacement for a therapist. They can easily say harmful things because they are not human intelligence.” Further explaining, she pointed out that while AI technology is advancing and there is significant interest in using AI for therapy, the current technology cannot yet match human therapists’ nuanced understanding and empathetic response. Dr. Saunders sees potential in AI helping with certain aspects of care in the future. She emphasizes that careful testing and validation are needed to ensure these tools are helpful and not harmful. Ask your doctor or rely on trusted organizations for a recommendation.
She sees a promising future, focused on removing barriers, improving personalized care, and ensuring everyone has the support they need.
If you are looking for help with mental health care, you are not alone. Visit the PPI website for more information and resources. You can also call the Admissions Department at 717-782-6493 or 866-746-2496 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Together, we can increase understanding and build support systems to help those facing mental health challenges.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this blog post will explore practical self-care tips and practices that allow individuals to pause, recharge and regain balance in a busy world. In our fast-paced lives, where demands and responsibilities seem to multiply by the minute, it’s easy to overlook the importance of self-care. Taking a break and prioritizing our mental health is crucial for overall well-being.
Before we delve into specific practices, let’s understand why self-care matters. When we neglect our own needs, stress accumulates, affecting our physical health, emotional resilience and cognitive functioning. Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s an investment in our ability to show up fully for ourselves and others.
In our busy lives, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline. By incorporating these practical strategies, you can prioritize your mental health, recharge and thrive even in the busiest of worlds.
For further information on Mental Health Awareness Month, visit: www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month/
Contact PPI at 866-746-2496 or 717-782-6493 (available 24/7) or visit our website at ppimhs.org/programs to learn more about our comprehensive services and programs.
As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, Lindsey Lowenfeld, a therapist and clinical manager at Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), shares valuable tips on how everyone can take better care of their mental health.
“We all have mental health, just like we all have physical health. It’s crucial to talk about it and seek help when needed,” said Lowenfeld when discussing one of the critical parts of any discussion surrounding improved mental health.
Lowenfeld believes caring for our mental health should be as regular as brushing our teeth.
Here are some tips she suggests:
Stay Active
Do things that get you moving and make you happy, like playing a sport or going for a walk.
Check In with Yourself
It’s essential to stop and think about how you’re feeling. Are you sad, tired or worried? Recognizing your feelings is the first step to feeling better.
Talk About Your Feelings
Sharing your feelings with friends, family or counselors can make a big difference.
Accumulate Moments of Joy
Reflect back on your successes, and don’t be afraid to take the time to enjoy simple pleasures. From watching your favorite show to reading a book to having a conversation with a friend, permit yourself to do what makes you happy.
“Practicing good mental health care is as essential as any other part of your health routine,” Lowenfeld points out. She went on to explain that just as you wouldn’t ignore a severe headache or a recurring cough, we shouldn’t overlook our mental health needs. It’s about taking those small steps daily to ensure we feel our best.
Many people feel uncomfortable talking about mental health because of stigma, which is when people view mental health problems in a negative way. Lowenfeld works hard to change these views. She teaches others at PPI and in the community that it’s okay to talk about mental health and seek help.
“Just talking about your experiences can open doors for others to do the same and remind everyone that they are not alone,” Lowenfeld explains.
How PPI Supports Its Clients
At PPI, Lowenfeld and her team help people with challenging emotions or mental health issues. They have special programs for children, adolescents and adults. PPI also offers support groups where people can meet others facing similar challenges.
As a Penn State Health Enterprise, PPI can help its clients in various ways. A few of the services they offer are:
PPI offers a wide range of services for individuals with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, emotional and behavioral problems, addictions, memory loss and more. You can learn more by visiting our website.
“One of the things that I did early in my manager role is to develop training on working with individuals with borderline personality disorder,” shared Lowenfeld. “It was to address the kind of stigma that individuals in the mental health field can have towards working with individuals with that diagnosis.”
This training, supported by PPI and encouraged by the managers, is a clear example of the work undertaken to create a well-supported and educated staff that can provide the best care for clients. This training, among others regularly offered, not only educates but also empowers the staff, enhancing their ability to provide compassionate and effective care.
“We are constantly working to coach employees and get them in the positions they want to be in,” she says. This approach includes providing staff with the resources and opportunities to pursue further training and specialization, particularly in areas like trauma therapy and DBT.
Lowenfeld dreams of making even more people aware of how important mental health is. She hopes to see more services available for everyone and less worry about talking about mental health. “I would love to see less stigma for people seeking services,” she says.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, remember the important tips shared above and know that places like PPI are ready to help. Whether you are having a hard day or looking for ways to stay happy, you are not alone. PPI and therapists like Lindsey Lowenfeld are here to support you on your journey to good mental health.
If you’d like to learn more about PPI’s approach to mental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone at 866-746-2496 or visit our website to learn more. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a cornerstone of addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. You can learn more by visiting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website.
During May, Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health enterprise owned by Penn State Health, is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month by raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting understanding about mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical strategies for coping during crisis moments and highlight the critical role of support networks and crisis hotlines.
Remember that reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone, and there are people who care about your well-being. Whether it’s a crisis hotline or a compassionate friend, seeking help is a courageous step toward healing.
For further information on Mental Health Awareness Month, visit: nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month
Contact PPI at 866-746-2496 or 717-782-6493 (available 24/7) or visit our website at ppimhs.org/programs to learn more about our comprehensive services and programs.
