Administration
Break the Stigma - Dealing with Mental Illness
By: Melanie Martin
“As people feel more and more isolated from their social networks, and face economic struggles and uncertainty…, we’ve seen an increase in struggles with mental health,” said Leiggi-Brandon. “This is the time to look for signs of family members or friends who are experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, and/or other mental health crises.”
What does professional golfer, Tadd Fujikawa, singer, Demi Lovato, NBA player Kevin Love, and former KHON2 anchor, Ron Mizutani have In common? They all publicly professed to have a form of mental illness. Perhaps you or a loved one have experienced depression or anxiety especially during the global pandemic.
Mental illness is real and it is common. We all need help from time to time, and we should not feel ashamed to ask for it. As a state employee, we have free counseling sessions through WorkLife Hawaii. Call to make an appointment to talk to a professional counselor about such issues as:
While I normally write about physical health and wellness, I’d like to instead emphasize the importance of taking care of our mental health and BREAK THE STIGMA surrounding mental illness. The experts warn that now, more than ever, we should be vigilant and watch for signs of anxiety or depression during these challenging times. “WHILE WE ARE working very hard around the pandemic, there is a mental health crisis happening,” said Sondra Leiggi-Brandon, QMC Director, Behavioral Health Services.
Within HDOT, we have lost employees to suicide during the pandemic. No one wants to talk about it, but I think we should start the conversation because this is too important to stay silent.
• • • • • •
Marriage/Family issues Stress • Depression • Anxiety Relationship Endings/Divorces Grief/Loss • Drugs and Alcohol Use Financial Stress • Adjusting to change Or other issues you might see a counselor for
To speak to a counselor, call WorkLife Hawaii. On Oahu, call (808) 543-8445. On the neighbor islands, call toll free (800) 994-3571.
PAGE 4
