Navigating Mental Health Resources: A Comprehensive Guide

The pandemic has profoundly impacted our collective sense of safety and well-being, affecting nearly everyone’s mental health in some way. Whether it was through sickness, loss, anxiety, depression, or isolation, the pandemic left few untouched. According to the World Health Organization, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25% in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Shift in Mental Health Awareness

The pandemic has led to a significant increase in the demand for mental health resources. As mental health awareness has grown and stigma has decreased, there has been a cultural shift in how we approach mental health care and how people find the resources they need.

Finding the Right Care

The decrease in the negative perception of mental health care can be attributed to several factors:

Social Media: Platforms have enabled people to reach out more widely to find connections and resources.
Celebrity Influence: High-profile celebrities, athletes, and politicians have come forward to share their mental health journeys.
Pandemic Impact: Many people reached a point where their mental health could no longer be ignored.

As conversations about mental health have increased, so has the desire to seek help. However, people of color often face obstacles in finding a safe and understanding space. For instance, Jade Thomas, a senior channel sales executive, found it challenging to find a therapist who was a woman of color. This highlights the need for more diverse mental health professionals.

Employers Bridging the Care Gap

As mental health care becomes more visible, many companies are stepping in to fill the care gap. According to a report from the Society of Human Resources Management, three out of four organizations offer mental health resources or plan to offer these benefits soon. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 71% of workers believe that employers are more concerned about their mental health than in the past.

Companies are finding new ways to meet the growing need for mental health support. This includes expanding mental health coverage, adding company wellness days off, and initiating programs such as resiliency workshops and meditation sessions. D’Shonda Brown, a mental health care advocate, has seen positive changes in accessing care through the workplace. Her experience with an employee assistance program (EAP) highlights the importance of workplace mental health support.

Innovative Approaches to Mental Health Support

As the mental health landscape shifts, there is a move away from traditional EAPs towards more flexible and personalized approaches. Companies like Modern Health are using technology to provide a range of mental health services. These services follow a culturally competent model designed to meet each person’s unique needs.

Modern Health’s “stepped care” model pairs individuals with the best modality of care based on their needs and preferences. This includes options such as therapy, coaching networks, digital content libraries, and workshops for parents, children, and caregivers. This approach acknowledges that therapy may not be the best cultural fit for everyone and provides multiple care options.

Benefits for Employers

Employers are beginning to understand that helping employees manage stress and prevent burnout has many benefits. These include increased employee retention, boosted productivity, and attracting new talent. Additionally, it helps save money, as individuals with mental health concerns often have higher medical costs. According to Dr. Jessica Watrous, a psychologist at Modern Health, mental and physical health are interconnected, and addressing mental health can lead to better overall health outcomes.