Join the Conversation: Overcoming Mental Health Stigma at Harris County’s ‘Beyond the Stigma’ Panel

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, County Judge Lina Hidalgo organized a panel called "Beyond the Stigma." This event was designed for County workers to explore the mental health resources available to them. Hidalgo invited healthcare professionals and two former Texans football players to share their personal experiences with mental health.

Hidalgo emphasized the importance of building a support network. "Surround yourself with people you can turn to, even if your therapist is unavailable," she said. This highlights how vital it is to have trusted friends or colleagues during tough times.

Key Strategies for Mental Well-being

The discussion covered several important strategies for maintaining good mental health:

1. Build a Support Network: Experts stress how crucial it is to have a reliable support system beyond just therapy. Friends, family, and coworkers can offer essential emotional support when needed.

2. Ongoing Health Management: Dr. Quianta Moore, director of The Hackett Center for Mental Health, made a strong point: mental health care deserves as much attention as physical health. She noted that primary care doctors should always ask about mental health. Managing mental health should be an ongoing process, encouraging individuals to try various therapies until they find what works best.

3. Break the Stigma: Former Texans player Owen Daniels spoke candidly about the misconceptions surrounding mental health, especially among men and athletes. "I want to help destigmatize mental health, particularly for those who seem to have it all together," he shared.

Mental Health Resources for County Employees

Harris County has developed several mental health support services for its workers, including:

• Four onsite mental health clinicians
• Peer support programs
• Mental health awareness training
• Specialized resources and educational materials

Leadership in Mental Health Awareness

Judge Hidalgo’s decision to take a leave for mental health treatment in 2023 has inspired many in the county. Her openness shows that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This attitude is helping to challenge long-held beliefs about mental health care.

This initiative is part of a larger movement across the country to make mental health discussions more common in the workplace. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year. Ensuring that assistance is available can make a significant difference in people’s lives.

As society continues to grapple with mental health issues, it’s encouraging to see leaders like Judge Hidalgo promote awareness and support. With open dialogues and accessible resources, we can create healthier and more understanding communities.

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