NAMI Chicago - Mindfulness + Mental Health
Laura Sage, Founder + CEO of CHILL Anywhere, sat down with Alexa James, CEO of NAMI Chicago to discuss the current state of mental wellness and what that means for education, support and allyship.
Below are key takeaways from their conversation:
Education is perspective shifting. The way organizations, communities and individuals educate and offer support, can shift the narrative to normalize mental health experiences and reduce othering.
Importance of using the right language. When communicating and educating, we need to speak and use language that is accessible to all and sensitive to different demographics. For instance, Alexa highlighted the Inspired Leadership Training they led for police sergeants. They were initially proposed speaking about “psychological safety” and got push back from CPD saying “nothing about our work is safe”. “Psychological security” was much better received and helped NAMI better connect with the police sergeants. Shifting their language improved the way they ran focus groups and training.
Stigma is discrimination. The way to dismantle stigma is to talk about it. Support people who aren’t ready to talk about their mental wellbeing. Allow people to be vulnerable.
Meditation supports mental wellness. Incorporating meditation and mindfulness into your day, even when you don’t feel like doing it, supports mental wellbeing.
Value of diversity of thought. It is critical to not only have demographic diversity, but diversity of thought. Laura shared details about a recent commencement speech at the University of Chicago. Professor James Evans highlighted how you may have people in the room that look completely different, but if they’re all thinking in a similar way, you’re not going to be elevating the conversation.
Mental health is a continuum. Healing comes in many forms. There is hope and there are places to get better. While therapy is beneficial for many, others may find different treatments more suitable. An example Alexa shared was her recent success using Ketamine treatment for her anxiety and depression. “It completely changed my life,” she explained and “offered me clarity without any side effects”. She now supports staff members who want treatment and encourages others to explore all treatment options available.
Accept and let go. Sometimes you have to surrender to the painful moments because on the other side there can be something really beautiful.
Want to learn more about NAMI Chicago, ways to get involved or resources for mental health support? Visit namichicago.com or check out @NAMIChicago on Instagram. Their support line is 800-950-NAMI or in a crisis, text “NAMI” to 741741.