As an employee of Marquette University, there are a variety of mental health resources available to you and your family. You can learn more about these on our Mental Health Resources website.
Marquette’s employee assistance program, LifeMatters, is free, confidential and available to all employees and their family members. Services available include six free sessions with a master’s-level counselor, assistance with work-life issues, and identification of local resources. Call LifeMatters anytime at 1-800-634-6433 or visit their website (password can be found on the Marquette EAP webpage).
The My Wellness portal is available to employees and spouses and has meditation videos available (go to “Home,” then “Video Library,” then “Videos” and filter by meditation). One-on-one free, confidential coaching is also available, with topics including sleep hygiene and stress management.
Employees and their families enrolled in a Marquette medical plan also have access to mental health care through UMR’s network of providers. Learn more about how your plan covers mental health care or search for a mental health provider.
Breaking Down Mental Health Stigma – from the Live Well, Work Well newsletter
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national health observance dedicated to shedding light on mental health conditions and fostering understanding and support for those experiencing them. Mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 adults experience a mental health disorder each year. Despite the prevalence of illnesses and increasing recognition of mental health as a critical component of overall wellbeing, stigma remains a significant barrier to receiving treatment and support. The fear of judgment and discrimination often prevents individuals from seeking help.
It’s imperative to raise awareness and educate others about mental health to combat stigma and create a more compassionate and supportive society. Here are some tips for reducing the stigma associated with mental health:
- Educate yourself and others. Understanding the complexity of mental illness, including substance use disorders, can help dispel misconceptions. Take the time to learn about mental health conditions, symptoms and treatments.
- Talk openly. Break the silence surrounding mental health by initiating open and honest conversations with friends, family and colleagues. By sharing personal experiences or listening without judgment, you can create a safe space for others.
- Choose your words carefully. Avoid stigmatizing words and use person-first language emphasizing the individual, not their condition.
- Encourage equality between physical and mental health conditions. Mental illness is a medical condition, so it should be treated just like a physical ailment.
- Speak up. If you suspect someone is struggling with their mental health, send them messages of support or help them get on the path to treatment.
By taking proactive steps to reduce mental health stigma, you can help create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to seek help. Together, we can break down the barriers that stand in the way of healing and acceptance.
