Happy Thursday let’s talk about mental health especially in Pennsylvania. Before we dive in let’s acknowledge that mental health doesn’t just affect Pennsylvania. It affects the entire world. However, in the state of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is stepping up to make sure that he can get his budget to accommodate mental health for all. No plan is perfect but the time to step up is now.
Gathering of the Best
Fellow Mental Health Therapist and I, Doctors, and more gathered to talk to Governor Shapiro. This wasn’t like most meetings where you come together and have a pow wow, feel good, and move on There was a call to action on several issues such as insurance, copays, license issues, getting therapist and behavioral specialists in every school and so much more. I was extremely proud to be in the best company. At first, I felt a little intimidated but soon realized there was a reason for my being there.
Mental Health Help is for All
One of the participants in the room stated something that made sense, mental health is an issue we all have in common but not all have a mental health disease. Honestly, it was the perfect definition to use when speaking on mental health. People see the attributes when they see someone who is in the middle of a mental health disease, and only attribute mental health to a break down. We rarely discuss the everyday symptoms like being overwhelmed, stressed, and more. Therefore, it’s important to discuss and talk openly about it.
Suffering in Silence
I wrote a blog post about how people suffer alone. Make sure you read it. However, the stigma behind mental health must get better. The way people “see” one another is important. It is the catalyst in getting help. For instance, just like if you broke your leg, you should be able to go and receive mental health care without a prior authorization. Many insurances require you to jump through hoops to get services. Therefore, the blog post of what to look for when getting therapy now is important. There are barriers that take place before you even book the first appointment.
Financial Support
There are many organizations that are doing the work. They meet with people who need the support for their mental health all the time. From church organizations, community groups, and more. In the state of Pennsylvania there are many who do not know that there is funding available. If you are an organization or believe that you are a qualified organization, please stay tuned as announcements will be made to apply and so the excellent work you are doing can continue.
Governor Shapiro and Mental Health
This is my third time meeting and seeing Governor Shapiro in person. We did a live on mental health a little over a week ago. Watch it. I never seen a governor in the past bring the real people to the table. Like we discussed, if a table is set it’s usually the ones that are out of touch talking. My purpose for meeting and being at this table was to ask for what we need. The people who are attempting to make therapy and other service appointments that can’t afford their copays. The ones who don’t know where to go to get services.
The kids in school being missed because their school is sharing a therapist, counselor, or behavior specialist between four other schools. For the parents who want to make sure that their kids see a therapist but wants one that fits their family and
Your Mental Health
I hope that again, you take your mental health seriously. Do not hide or mask it out of fear from others. The best gift you can give yourself is the gift of good mental health and the tools for when you need them most. Continue to be on the lookout soon as I will be sharing tools needed to support you or a loved one. As always, I am not a mental health expert. I am a mental health advocate and encourager to those who need it most in the moments when they feel unsupported.
This meeting yesterday wasn’t about me. It’s about using the platform to help others. However, I am in awe of the moments. I was told 8 years ago that I overshare too much. Bringing people into my world wouldn’t be well received. I am glad that for all of us I don’t stop sharing. There is another me somewhere who can’t speak up. They don’t know what to say or where to go. I want to always remember that and them especially if them is you. I see you and want the best for you. You can read Governor Shapiro’s budget here.
