Maximizing Grant Funding: How One Higher Ed Professional Supports Student Mental Health I EP. 47 Unlearn The Lies About Mental Health

How can we create a world where kindness and empathy for mental health challenges are the norm? How often do we overlook the intrinsic connection between our mental and physical health?
 
Mental health is physical health. Mental health is not an isolated facet of our existence but an integral component of our physical well-being. Unfortunately, this crucial connection is often overlooked since mental health issues plague our society. The stigma around mental health remains a challenging barrier, preventing many from seeking the help they desperately need. 
 
In light of these challenges, the solution lies in promoting compassion and empathy to everyone, regardless of who they are and what they can give back. We must seek and strive to create a culture where people feel safe sharing their struggles without fearing shame and judgment. Remember that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and it is about time that it receives the attention and care it deserves. 
 
In this episode, we want to help listeners gain valuable insights about mental health advocacy, the importance of self-awareness, prioritizing self-care, suicide prevention, and the positive impact of caring gestures. Tune in as we discover the value of collective efforts in promoting mental well-being and how incorporating fun and engaging activities promotes a culture of open conversation around mental health. Be enlightened by Melanie's passion for mental health awareness and her remarkable work in breaking down barriers and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues.
 
Today, we're joined by Melanie Gilson, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, passionate mental health advocate, and dedicated college educator who has made significant contributions to mental health awareness and suicide prevention. With a background in counseling and a solid commitment to improving the well-being of students, Melanie has become a prominent figure in the mental health community.
 
Melanie has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing how mental health is approached on college campuses. Her innovative Mental Health Awareness Festivals have brought together community agencies and students to create a supportive environment for tackling mental health challenges. She is dedicated to reducing stigma and promoting self-care to impact the lives of students and faculty alike profoundly. Through her deep commitment to education, Melanie's approach integrates self-care, resilience, and cultural sensitivity into mental health initiatives, emphasizing kindness, empathy, and self-awareness to empower others to impact the mental health field positively.             
                                                  
"On the way down to your gut, check in with your heart because everything is connected."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson
 
Show Highlights:
 
(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction
(00:02:06) Welcoming today's guest, Melanie Gnaizda-Gilson.
(00:03:03) Who is Melanie Gnaizda-Gilson?
(00:05:54) The impact of educators passionate about mental health
(00:07:47) How did Melanie develop her passion for mental health awareness?
(00:11:14) It's okay not to be okay.
(00:12:47) Your pain impacts your loved ones.
(00:15:10) What does being a mental health advocate for your students mean?
(00:17:07) Treat everyone with kindness and empathy
(00:19:04) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.
(00:20:09) The Mental Health Awareness Festival
(00:24:13) The professional certification was resilience
(00:26:39) Goals and success of the QPR Suicide Prevention Training
(00:29:30) The GLS Campus Suicide Prevention Grant 
(00:31:26) Improving Access to Mental Health Services
(00:34:26) Substance Abuse and Ment