The Mississippi Department of Mental Health is introducing a new way to approach healing by using people from the community who have life experience in mental health or addiction issues.
"Don't let the stigma of mental health issues, struggles, diagnosis, and all the things we've done in the past, don't let that stop you from reaching out," says Peer Support Specialist Natalie Moore. Specialists, like Moore, are trained to be responsive to the needs of patients. She's spoke at the department's recent meet-up at the Two Mississippi Museums. Moore and other specialists say their first order of business is to attack misconceptions about what it means to reach out and ask for help.
Sitaniel Wimbley, Executive Director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, says the meet-ups serve as a beacon for hope.
"Sometimes when they receive that diagnosis, it becomes a hopeless journey," explains Wimbley. "So that's why we are having these mental health meetups, so we can let those in the community know there is hope."
MDMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey says they are seeing long-term improvements for patients who have peer support as a part of their recovery. And they are trying to meet more patients where they are.
"Most of the time a crisis can be resolved when you just have someone to talk to, however, you sometimes need someone to respond, to physically go out and be there and help that person in the community. That's our goal. That's our Mobile Crisis Response Team."
Bailey says support specialist are available in all 82 counties. More information can be found at www.dmh.ms.gov
