In recent Community Health Needs Assessments conducted by Grant Regional Health Center, Mental Health has been identified as a top priority. We also recognized that stigma and misconceptions were major barriers to individuals seeking help when struggling. To reduce stigma, Grant Regional embraced the Make It OK campaign, a community campaign to reduce stigma by increasing understanding and creating caring conversations about mental illnesses.
 
The campaign centers around the fact that mental illnesses are very common and encourages community members to talk openly and supportively about mental health and mental illnesses. By launching this stigma reduction campaign, our goal is to help families, friends and colleagues who live with a mental illness to feel supported and get the treatment they deserve.
 
Putting The Concept into Action
A core committee developed a plan to train all full-time and part-time staff on the campaign, followed by a detailed plan to spread awareness externally in the community. Activities have included Mental Health Month themed activities, informational displays and educational materials, and guest speakers.
 
A highlight of the plan was creating a community event called Shine the Light to recognize Suicide Prevention Month. The focus was to gather friends and family to remember those who have been lost to suicide, and to show support for anyone living with a mental illness. Free luminaries were available, and attendees could customize them with names or memories.
 
We initiated conversations and established relationships with area schools, counselors, and county organizations to bridge gaps and offer resources to continue to increase awareness of the Make It OK campaign and its mission. We are proud of the efforts we have made so far and look forward to continuing to address this important health concern into the future.