As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s reflect on the importance of mental well-being in our lives. Over 21 % of U.S. adults are experiencing a mental illness, highlighting the widespread need for understanding and supporting mental health across our community—whether you’re a health plan participant, retiree, or a family member. At Alliance Benefits, we’re committed to nurturing every aspect of your health, not just this month but all year round. Let’s continue to debunk myths and explore how our faith can guide us in understanding and managing mental wellness.
Just as flowers need water to bloom, we need each other and the right resources to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. It’s important to remember that even some of our favorite heroes in the Bible, like Elijah and David, faced emotional struggles. They encourage us to handle mental health challenges gracefully and to seek help when needed. This reinforces the idea that it’s okay to ask for support for our mental health, just as we would for any physical ailment.
Let’s Address Myths vs. Reality:
- Myth 1: Your faith must be stronger if you’re struggling mentally.
- Reality: Just like diabetes or heart disease, mental health issues don’t reflect your faith but rather a health condition that needs care from both medical and spiritual perspectives.
- Myth 2: Prayer is all you need to cure mental illness.
- Reality: Prayer is powerful and much needed, but it’s important to remember that God works through doctors and therapists to provide healing. It’s all about using every resource God gives us, including professional help and support.
- Myth 3: Mental health problems? That’s for younger folks.
- Reality: Mental health knows no age limits. Everyone, from young to old, might face these challenges, especially as life brings changes and transitions.
- Myth 4: Leaders and caregivers must always be strong and cannot show vulnerability.
- Reality: Effective leadership and caregiving involve recognizing the need for breaks and support. Burnout is real, and even the strongest need to recharge and ask for help when needed.
Support and Resources Just for You: We have gathered various resources tailored for our Alliance community to support your mental health journey and offer help as needed. These resources cover a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress management, and are here to provide you with the support you need when you need it. Employee Assistance Program and FSH Virtual Counseling offer comprehensive support, ensuring that you are never alone in your mental health journey.
- The Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Our EAP, in partnership with Workpartners LifeSolutions, offers confidential counseling for various personal and professional challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stress, relationships, or life changes, our EAP is here to help. Contact LifeSolutions by calling (844) 833-0527 (TTY 711) or visiting www.workpartners.com/cma
- FSH Virtual Counseling: Available 24/7, this service provides access to certified therapists from the comfort of your home. You can even request a Christian counselor to integrate your faith into therapy sessions. Learn more at (888) 691-7867 or visit fshealth.com. You can also download the app from the App Store® or Google PlayTM.
We also offer some exciting webinars that will focus on health and wellness and are tailored to our members’ unique needs. These webinars will feature expert speakers and interactive sessions that provide practical tips and strategies for maintaining health and wellness in our daily lives.
Our upcoming webinars include the following: Click the links below to Register Today!
- 25 Tips for Healthy Eating on a Budget on Thu, Jun 06, from 5:00 PM to 5:00 PM (EST)
- The Three S’s of Stress Management: Signs, Symptoms, and Strategies on Thu, Jun 27, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM (EST).
As May comes to an end, remember that your journey towards mental well-being doesn’t have to. Keep the conversation going—whether at home, in the workplace, or within your community. And always remember, at Alliance Benefits, we believe in supporting each other because we are healthier together. Whether through our health plan, EAP program, virtual counseling services, or webinars, we’re here to assist you and your loved ones.
Sources:
- The State of Mental Health in America. Mental Health America. Accessed 6/06/2023.
