Mental Health Today

In the 87th episode of "Mental Health Today," host Ken Stearns engages in a thoughtful dialogue with Mark DeFee, a seasoned therapist and corporate wellness warrior, focusing on the increasingly pertinent issue of mental health in the workplace. The episode begins with Ken reflecting on his recent encounters with high-performing athletes and ties in these experiences with the broader theme of mental health.

Mark, drawing from his 20 years of experience in corporate wellness, sheds light on the prevalent issue of employee burnout. He articulates the critical need for companies to foster a culture that not only recognizes but actively supports mental health. The discussion underscores that in today’s work environment, mental health is no longer a peripheral issue but a central component of daily conversations and corporate strategy.

One of the key insights shared by Mark is the symbiotic relationship between employee wellness and company success. He presents compelling data that supports the connection between a workforce's mental well-being and the overall performance of an organization. This part of the discussion highlights how fostering a positive work culture significantly impacts employee productivity and, by extension, the company's success.

The conversation then shifts to actionable strategies for building resilience in the workplace. Mark emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy mindset and shares tactics for handling high-stress moments. He also discusses the value of difficult conversations in enhancing relationships, suggesting that before engaging in such dialogues, it's crucial to clarify the message and tone.

Ken and Mark also delve into Mark's personal journey, discussing how his experience with epilepsy profoundly influenced his career path and fueled his commitment to mental health advocacy. Mark's story is a testament to turning personal challenges into a driving force for positive change, particularly in how he uses his experiences to empathize with and support others.

Towards the end of the episode, the focus turns to Mark's work with organizations, where he designs custom programs and strategies to integrate mental health into their operational fabric. He talks about the "Thrive Again Program," an initiative that offers mental skills bootcamp to companies seeking to dip their toes into mental health strategies.

The episode wraps up with Ken expressing admiration for Mark's dedication to transforming workplace cultures and recognizing the importance of mental health. Ken's personal experience in the corporate world and with employee benefit plans adds an extra layer of insight, making the discussion particularly rich and relevant.

For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:

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Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.

Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

On Mental Health Today, we had the privilege of speaking with Alan Cox, a mental health changemaker and the founder of EverYellow. Alan's personal journey with mental health has been marked by challenges and obstacles that significantly impacted his happiness, potential, and relationships. However, he has emerged from those experiences with a deep understanding of mental fitness and well-being, which has transformed his life and inspired his mission to create positive change.

Alan's overarching goal is to shift the global narrative around mental health. Through his impact venture, EverYellow, and their innovative mental fitness app, he is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve strong mental fitness and lead easier, more fulfilling lives. He believes that individual empowerment is the foundation for lasting change and aims to provide the tools and resources necessary to support mental well-being.

Recognizing the importance of mental health in the workplace, Alan is passionate about fostering healthy work environments and organizational change. He firmly believes that workplace well-being is not just a buzzword but a competitive advantage that can drive enhanced productivity, creativity, and employee retention. By prioritizing well-being within organizations, he envisions a positive impact on individuals and the overall culture.

In addition to individual and organizational empowerment, Alan is a strong advocate for policy changes that emphasize mental health education from an early age. By encouraging organizations and institutions to prioritize well-being naturally, he aims to create a society that values and supports mental health.

Through EverYellow and his various initiatives, Alan is dedicated to creating a positive impact in the field of mental health. Whether you're interested in exploring the mental fitness app, discussing the potential of prioritizing well-being in your organization, or seeking synergies in mental health policy advocacy, Alan is eager to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborate for change.

To learn more about EverYellow and their mission, visit their website at everyellow.com. Reach out to Alan Cox if you're interested in being part of the transformative movement to change the narrative around mental health—one conversation at a time.

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Mental Health Today With is a new branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar foundation.

Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:

Website: https://www.mhtpodcast.com

Youtube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2s

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=true

Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.

Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this episode of "Mental Health Today," Dr. Jean Kanokogi, a seasoned law enforcement professional and mental health advocate, joins host Ken Stearns for a candid and insightful conversation. With over 25 years of experience in criminal investigations and extensive involvement in mental health advocacy, Dr. Kanokogi brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the discussion.

The conversation delves deep into the intersection of mental health and law enforcement, shedding light on the often overlooked struggles faced by those in the field. Dr. Kanokogi emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues within the law enforcement community, highlighting the significant impact it can have on individuals' well-being and job performance.

One of the key points discussed is the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement. Dr. Kanokogi shares how historically, there has been a reluctance to acknowledge and address mental health issues within the profession, with individuals often encouraged to "suck it up" and soldier on. However, she emphasizes that this mindset is not only detrimental to individual officers but also poses risks to public safety.

Dr. Kanokogi provides valuable insights into the psychological toll of law enforcement work, particularly in high-stress situations like terrorist attacks and natural disasters. She discusses how the accumulation of trauma over time can lead to significant mental health challenges, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, she highlights the impact of unresolved childhood trauma on first responders, compounding the challenges they face in managing their mental health.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Kanokogi advocates for destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting access to resources and support for law enforcement professionals. She discusses the importance of resilience tools and treatment modalities in helping officers cope with the demands of their job and manage the psychological effects of trauma.

The episode also touches on Dr. Kanokogi's advocacy work, including her involvement in legislative efforts to support mental health initiatives for law enforcement. She highlights the progress being made in recognizing and addressing mental health concerns within the field, citing bipartisan efforts to implement policies and programs aimed at supporting officers' well-being.

In closing, Dr. Kanokogi leaves listeners with a powerful message of resilience and compassion. She encourages individuals to prioritize their mental health and reach out for support when needed, emphasizing the importance of self-care and kindness towards oneself and others. Overall, the episode serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health in law enforcement and the ongoing work needed to support those who serve and protect our communities.

For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:

Website: https://www.mhtpodcast.com

Youtube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2s

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=true

Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.

Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

The conversation between Ken Stearns and Becky Laman on "Mental Health Today" delves into the profound impact of timely care on mental health support for college students. Becky's journey into the mental health space stems from her background in higher education, where she noticed the significant role mental health played in student retention. Personal experiences, such as the tragic loss of a young member of her community to suicide, further fueled her commitment to addressing mental health challenges.

TimelyCare, founded in 2017, offers virtual healthcare services for college students, aiming to provide equitable access to care without the barrier of insurance or copayments. Throughout the conversation, Becky emphasizes the importance of meeting students where they are, both physically and emotionally, by offering a range of support options tailored to their needs. This includes not only professional counseling but also peer support networks and self-care resources.

The evolution of TimelyCare reflects a broader shift in how mental health is perceived and addressed, particularly among young adults. By leveraging technology and data analytics, TimelyCare strives to break down barriers to mental health support and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. Becky highlights the significant strides made in improving mental health outcomes, with an average mental health improvement score of 75% among students utilizing their services.

The conversation also touches on the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, with untreated mental health issues often manifesting as physical ailments. Becky emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to student wellness, addressing not only mental health but also factors such as personal fulfillment and a sense of belonging.

Looking ahead, TimelyCare continues to innovate and expand its offerings, including self-care journeys and peer support communities. By collecting and analyzing data on student outcomes and experiences, they aim to further refine their services and enhance the impact of their interventions. Ultimately, Becky's vision is to break the stigma surrounding mental health and empower students to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:

Website: https://www.mhtpodcast.com

Youtube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2s

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=true

Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.

Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In a thought-provoking episode #89 of the "Mental Health Today" podcast, host Ken Stearns engages in a compelling and insightful conversation with Jessica Atchley, the founder of Mindful Recruiting. This episode offers a unique glimpse into Jessica's remarkable journey into the behavioral health and mental health industry. Her decision to enter this field was deeply personal, driven by her family's history of substance use and mental health challenges. This personal connection has fueled her passion for helping others and finding the right individuals to fill crucial roles within the industry.

With over a decade of experience in healthcare marketing and admissions, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She highlights the critical role that staff members play in a patient's treatment journey and emphasizes the profound impact a caring and skilled professional can have on someone seeking help.

The episode also delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of mental health recruitment, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jessica discusses how the pandemic has brought mental health to the forefront of public consciousness, making it a mainstream topic of conversation. This, in turn, has led to an influx of passionate and empathetic individuals, especially young therapists, into the field.

Furthermore, the conversation touches on the changing dynamics of therapists opting for self-employment and telehealth practices. Jessica addresses the challenges they face, such as the business aspects of private practice and the need to find a sustainable patient base. Throughout the episode, Jessica's unwavering commitment to helping individuals find fulfilling careers in mental health shines through, highlighting the ongoing importance of addressing the growing mental health crisis and ensuring that compassionate and skilled professionals are readily available to those in need.

For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:

Website: https://www.mhtpodcast.com

Youtube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2s

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=true

Mental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.

Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.