PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND ADVOCACY

Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are common and can have significant negative impacts on one’s academic/occupational functioning, interpersonal relationships, and quality of life. Individuals with a history of trauma and those experiencing acute or chronic stressors are at particularly elevated risk of experiencing mental health difficulties. The current talk will review the signs and symptoms associated with some of the most common mood and anxiety disorders, and the impacts these can have on academic, occupational, and interpersonal function. We will review known risk and protective factors related to depression and anxiety and will briefly review steps one can take to promote positive mental health - particularly during times of stress. This will include discussion of the critical role that positive and supportive social relationships can have in buffering the negative consequences of stress and in maintaining positive emotional health and well-being. We will review a variety of behavioral or psychotherapy treatments that have been shown to be effective for treating depression and anxiety, as well as common medication options. Resources that may be available when one is in a mental health crisis, as well as ways to identify longer term mental health treatment options will be reviewed. Common psychological, social and structural barriers to mental health care will also be identified and discussed. Finally, we will review ways that one might serve as a mental health ally and advocate for family, peers and colleagues. This will include reflecting on one’s own assumptions, biases and potential internalized stigma related to mental health issues and mental health treatments. In addition, we will review and discuss ways one might reach out to and communicate with others whom you suspect may be struggling with mental health issues in a way that is open, direct, validating, non-stigmatizing and supportive.