THE LOOP A COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM AROUND CALIFORNIA ISSUE 132
MAY 2024
VOLUME 11
Dear WestCare Family,
Dear WestCare California Team,
As we present the May issue of The Loop, we acknowledge Mother's Day. It’s a time for us to reflect on the incredible impact that mothers have on our lives and the world around us. Mothers are the unsung heroes, the steady hands that guide us, the warm embrace that comforts us, and the wise voices that counsel us. Their contributions are immeasurable, shaping not just their families, but the very fabric of society.
“Looney Bin,” “Nut House,” “Bedlam,” “Asylum.” What do these terms conjure up? Places of safety or compassion? What about the terms, “nut job,” “lunatic,” “schizo,” or “maniac?” These are all words to describe one who might be criticized or shunned by society and are such pejorative terms for hospitals or persons inhabiting those hospitals, namely psychiatric hospitals. Unless you are such a person or are the parent or child of a loved one who suffers from mental health conditions, you may not know the negative effects of this way of labeling. The pain of mental health and lack of awareness perpetuate stereotyped ways of thinking about people who live with mental health issues every day.
For me, the importance of mothers is deeply personal. My mother was a constant source of support and strength. She was always there for me, whether I was celebrating a success or navigating a difficult period. Her home-cooked meals are among my fondest memories, not just for their deliciousness, but for the love and care that went into each one. She uniquely made everyone feel welcome in our home, creating a space filled with warmth and acceptance.
According to The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), it’s estimated that 169 million people live in areas where there are shortages of mental health professionals and that rural areas are more impacted by this issue. Rural communities have shortages that are over double that found in urban centers. Furthermore, other factors such as reimbursement, ability to pay, and other barriers to accessing care increase this trend. If this alone doesn’t raise awareness consider this: One in five adults in the United States experience a mental illness in any given year, with depression and anxiety disorders being among the most common. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health challenges - emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues proactively.
In her challenging times, I felt honored to be able to give back some of the love and support she had always given me. She lived with me twice during my adult life, the second time being at the end of her journey. Caring for and being there for her was a privilege, as she had always been there for me. I think of her often and find comfort in her wise counsel, which continues to guide me even now. I like to believe that she still watches over me, her spirit is a constant presence in my life. As we honor all mothers this month, let's take a moment to appreciate the profound influence they have on us. They are the bedrock of our families and communities, offering unconditional love and selfless dedication. To all the mothers out there, thank you for everything you do. Your strength, wisdom, and love make the world a better place.
How can we create an impact in our own lives or spheres of influence to promote better ways of understanding mental health awareness? What can we learn about our sense of well-being? How can we better promote a sense of wellness in ourselves? The vast choices that we have sometimes lead up to one choice that we place as a priority to live a better life for the sake of our health. Prominent public figures, celebrities, and influencers have gone on to share their firsthand experiences with mental health, sharing their contributions to reducing the stigma behind mental health and encouraging open conversations about it. There is still much work to be done to ensure that mental health remains a priority and that all individuals and communities have access to the care and support they need. Continued efforts to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and expand access to mental health services are essential to building a society where mental health is valued and supported.
Edward Crossman Edward Crossman, LMFT Clinical Director WestCare California
Shawn Jenkins Chief Operating Officer WestCare Foundation - Western Region
we s t c a r e .c om