Broadcast on August 12, 2018
Emily Vera, Executive Director of the Mental Health Association in Delaware discussed it mission, to promote improved mental well-being for all individuals and families in Delaware through education, support and advocacy and to improve the community’s understanding of mental health and the mind-body connection between mental and physical health. She described sound mental health, and the differences between quirks and human nature, and problems that can affect a person’s enjoyment of family, work and social interaction. Emily spoke of early warning signs, and reminded us that there’s no harm in asking if a friend or loved one is struggling, especially if there are concerns about suicide. She discussed their advocacy for improved support and treatment, particularly at the state and federal levels, especially where reform is needed. She spoke on MHA’s resources, including mental health care referral with confidential access to the appropriate information and how to obtain care. She also discussed peer ‘counselors’ who are trained and employed to offer support in grief counseling, depression and suicide, also volunteer opportunities and a way to participate in their 5k ‘Erasing the Blues’ in October. Finally, a discussion of their workshops and conferences aimed to patients, families, peer professionals and law enforcement.