Today, October 10, is World Mental Health Day. The overall objective of World Mental Health Day, according to the WHO, is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. The theme for 2023, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is 'Mental Health is a universal human right.' Prolink recognizes the vital importance of proper mental health care for all, and is driven to continue prioritizing the mental health of its talent and internal team with complimentary resources and support.
Caring for Caregivers
The mental well-being of talent placed by Prolink, especially frontline caregivers, is heavily prioritized within the organization. Prolink has taken steps to identify and address the needs of its talent by providing free mental health resources, including:
- Free video counseling with licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists
- Self-paced online courses and personalized coaching for anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and more
- A MetLife employee assistance plan (EAP) that provides free financial, legal, and personal assistance
Prolink also recognizes that a healthy relationship with work is driven by transformational leadership and recognition for extraordinary performance. In partnership with the DAISY Foundation, it launched its DAISY Award program to honor the accomplishments of Prolink nurses who go above and beyond to provide excellent care. Prolink also launched its ROSE Award in 2023, which serves to recognize exemplary allied clinicians.
A Culture of Well-Being
The mental health of Prolink's internal team is supported in myriad ways, from team-building events and programs, to robust internal awards and recognition, to Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for marginalized groups, allies, and those struggling with mental health issues. The Mental Health ERG has seen upwards of 180 participants and addresses topics like men's mental health, postpartum anxiety, and suicide prevention. It provides a platform for Prolink's internal team to share their experiences, learn more about prevalent mental health concerns, and get judgment-free support from their peers.
"After every meeting, I find myself in total awe that I have the honor of bringing light and awareness to this vitally important topic," said Prolink Culture Coordinator and ERG co-chair Jena Michael. "Mental health and wellness isn't just important to me. It's easily one of my main priorities in my personal and professional life. I strive to be the person I needed when I was younger and having a hard time."
Michael has seen the impact of providing a safe, welcoming space for Prolink team members to voice their struggles and concerns.
"A meetin that really sticks out to me was June, which was Men's Mental Health month," she said. "There is an obvious stigma on mental health, but even more so with men. Being able to highlight their voices and feelings in such a powerful way was an unforgettable experience."
Breaking the Stigma
World Mental Health Day provides an opportunity for mental health stakeholders to platform their work and advocate for proper mental health care everywhere, for everyone. Prolink encourages everyone struggling with their mental health, especially its talent and internal team, to seek resources and help they are comfortable with and reach out to someone they trust.
To learn more about the resources Prolink offers its talent and their families, click the button below.
