KeeleyLife: Let’s Talk About Mental Health
By: Melissa Swank
Mental health plays an essential role in our overall well-being. Our mental health determines how well we can handle stress, relate to our peers, and make healthy decisions. In recent years, mental health is becoming more of a priority with many companies and individuals alike. Unfortunately, stigmas surrounding mental health continue to overshadow the issue.
Mental Health Awareness
Despite increased acknowledgment of mental health issues, it is still the white elephant in the room – nobody wants to talk about it. Millions of Americans are living with mental illnesses, but only half that number receives treatment. The fear of not fitting in and other stigmas bound to this issue can be accredited to this lack of consideration, but the underlying problem is even larger than this. As a society, we do not place enough importance on mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to think about our mental health, but graveness in which we treat this topic is lackluster at best. If we get sick, we go to the doctor; we brush our teeth every day to take care of our teeth; but when we are overwhelmed, have feelings of anxiety, or are stressed, we do not take time to slow down and address our problems. This is just as important as taking care of our physical health, as it can have a significant impact on our total well-being.
You Are Not Alone
Arguably the first step in addressing mental health problems is realizing that we are not alone. For some, erasing feelings of isolation might include understanding that others are dealing with similar issues, but for others, it is simply understanding that the information and support we need is out there. Resources have been put in place to ensure that we can have easy access to get the help we need. See below for a list of hotlines and centers that give the help and information you might need.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255 | www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Missouri Department of Mental Health: 1-800-811-4760 | www.bhrstl.org
ADAPT of Missouri: 888-657-3201 | www.adaptusa.com
BJC Behavioral Health: 800-985-5990 | www.moshowmehope.org
National Alliance on Mental Illness: 800-950-6264 | https://www.nami.org/home
KeeleyLife
At Keeley Companies, we are committed to sustaining a culture of health and well-being for all of our Keeley’ns. Our health and wellness cultural pillar, KeeleyLife, ensures that all of our team members have access to the variety of opportunities to become the best versions of themselves. Offering robust programs such as educational classes, events, competitions, and more, KeeleyLife encourages all of our team members to make a formidable attempt at sustaining great mental, nutritional, financial, and fitness habits. Through yoga classes, cooking classes, push-up & step competitions, and large & small group coaching sessions, KeeleyLife helps all of our Keeley’ns conquer improve their overall health and well-being. These benefits have been instrumental in helping increase mental health awareness within our team members. Resources such as our company wide EAP give Keeley’ns the opportunity to reach out to healthcare professionals if they are in need of help. KeeleyLife’s video series, Mental Health Minutes, is hosted by our KeeleyLife committee leader, April Lopinot, as she talks with mental health experts on various topics and gives Keeley’ns insight on how to improve their own conditions and get help if needed. Additionally, KeeleyLife’s Health and Wellness Coach, Melissa Swank, provides team members with group coaching opportunities to ensure that no one feels alone and isolated in their mental health battles.
“My mission is to empower all Keeley'ns to take their mental, physical, nutritional, and financial health seriously. Our education and resources offered through KeeleyLife have one single goal - help Keeley'ns improve their overall health and well-being."
-April Lopinot, KeeleyLife Committee Leader
To see the impact that KeeleyLife is making on our Keeley’ns, click here.
If you want to learn how you can start your own health and wellness program or learn more about our efforts, reach out to our Vice President of HR and KeeleyLife Committee Leader, April Lopinot, at alopinot@lkeeley.com!