Tips for being an effective mental health care advocate

It’s so important to educate ourselves about mental health issues in our country. As we close out World Mental Health Day, here are some helpful ways to break the stigma of mental illness.

• Learn how to respond in a mental health crisis through Mental Health First Aid classes, or the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
• Words matter! Using words like “crazy” and “schizo” are not helpful. Listen and learn without judgment, and provide positive feedback.
• Show compassion. Be there for those dealing with a mental illness. Let them know someone cares.

– Dr. Kevin Huckshorn, Wellpath