Podcast: Advocating for Solutions

Mental illness is an important topic that affects many people, but it's not spoken about enough in Utah. 33% of people in the state struggle with anxiety or depression symptoms, but there is a shortage of mental health professionals. Mental health affects every aspect of a person's life and ignoring it can have severe consequences. We can raise awareness and advocate for resources to ensure everyone has access to support. Free therapy apps like Talkspace and BetterHelp can provide help. We can also use social media to spread awareness and reduce stigma. Prioritizing self-care and encouraging others to do the same is essential. Mental health awareness is crucial for creating a supportive society, and seeking help is important. Hello everyone, welcome to my podcast. For those of you who might be new here, I'm Gracie, a student at Utah State University. I've lived in northern Utah for about five years and I've loved it. In today's episode, I'll be discussing a subject that affects countless people, mental illness. This is a matter that is crucial to and deeply affects the well-being of those around us, even our own friends and family. Here in Utah, I've noticed that mental health has been a topic that is not spoken of enough. About 33% of people, nearly 1.1 million in this state, struggle with anxiety or depression symptoms. With those high numbers and a lacking number of mental health professionals in Utah, many who struggle with mental health are not getting the help that they are needing. My goal for this episode is to spread awareness on this important topic. As we dive further, I will also propose a few solutions on how the mental health of those around us can be improved and how we can better spread awareness. Let's first ask a simple question. Why is mental health awareness so important? Well, to put it clearly, it's important because mental health affects nearly every aspect of a person's life. Picture yourself with a condition that not only limits you and your capabilities, while having this condition it continually goes unnoticed by those around you. This is the unfortunate reality of mental illness. It influences how we think, feel, and behave. It impacts our relationships, our work, and our overall quality of life. Ignoring mental health concerns can lead to severe consequences, from increased productivity and strained relationships, to substance abuse and even suicide. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being, and by raising awareness and advocating for resources, we can ensure that everyone has access to the support and care that they deserve. After going through the ways that mental illness can impact a person's life, what are some ways that those who are struggling can get help? Because of the detrimental effects that mental illness has on individuals, it's crucial that those who are struggling can access to the help that they are in need of. In Utah, there is a shortage in therapists and counselors, and the amount of people who struggle with mental illness has been increasing. According to the Salt Lake Tribune, Utah faces a drastic shortage of mental health professionals, and those needs are only increasing. Utah ranks 11th highest among states in terms of the share of adults with any mental illness. Here is a way that individuals anywhere can more easily get the help that they are in desperate need of. We can utilize the resources available to us, such as free therapy apps. In today's digital age, technology has made mental health support more accessible than ever before. Apps like Talkspace, BetterHelp, and Seven Cups provide affordable therapy options and instant support at the touch of a button. By promoting these resources, we can help break down the barriers to seeking help and encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being. Next, let me suggest a way that we all can show support and help spread mental health awareness. We can leverage social media and other platforms to spread awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health. By sharing our own experiences, offering words of encouragement, and providing valuable resources, we can create a supportive online community where individuals feel safe to discuss their mental health struggles openly. Let's use our platforms to amplify voices advocating for mental health awareness and to challenge harmful stereotypes and misconceptions. In our own lives, we can prioritize self-care and mental well-being and encourage others to do the same. Whether it's practicing mindfulness, engaging in regular exercise, or seeking therapy, taking proactive steps to prioritize our mental health is essential for overall well-being. In conclusion, mental health awareness is crucial for creating a supportive and inclusive society where everyone feels valued and supported. By spreading awareness, advocating for resources, and prioritizing our own mental well-being, we can work together to break down barriers and ensure that no one struggles alone. Additionally, utilizing therapy apps and spreading awareness through social media will help increase the well-being of Utah society and promote a more positive and supporting environment. Thank you for listening in on this important discussion. I hope this at least sheds more light on mental health awareness and its importance. Individuals in Utah who are struggling should not feel like their quality of life is not going to get better. It can always get better. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and seeking help is a great idea if needed. Let's continue to support each other and prioritize mental health in everything we do. Thank you.