NNews December 2023

9 December 2023 use and social determinants of health, is needed because when individuals return to the community after being incarcerated, they often “must go back to where they last were, which are not positive environments,” he stated. These living conditions could lead to recidivism, which is emotionally costly to the individuals and financially draining on the criminal justice system. For Dr. Womack, joining the NJMHI Board is a natural fit because its mission goes “hand in hand” with what he has been doing. Plus, he has been involved with NJAMHAA for a long time, having co-chaired the association’s Life Sciences and Innovation Council (LSIC) for many years. “There were no ‘no’s’ about getting involved with NJMHI. The ‘yes’s’ piled up, and I’m ready to accept the responsibility. Being on the Board gives me the opportunity to take a closer look Chris Womack Dr. Womack has had equally significant impact throughout his 30+ year career in the life sciences and pharmaceutical industry, as well as in the community work he does personally in reducing inequality in healthcare access. He received various awards from nonprofits, including NJAMHAA, government entities and others for his work. Not a newcomer to this area, Dr. Womack has dedicated a significant part of his life to addressing disparities. He is a noted speaker for community groups, churches and other organizations. “I’ve seen the impact of mental health in the community, but I didn’t understand how to address it back then. Now, I know how to leverage policy and I have strong credibility in the community from the work I have done to address disparities,” Dr. Womack said. “I’m looking to bring that lens to NJMHI to help underserved communities and people coming out of incarceration. I strongly believe that every person coming out of jail and prison needs therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder to help reduce recidivism,” Dr. Womack added. “There is a lack of services for people being released from incarceration, especially African Americans,” Dr. Womack said. Additional support for mental health, as well as substance at the issues within myself to see what I can bring,” Dr. Womack said. “I want to broaden my own voice, broaden that megaphone, and make people aware that NJMHI is here to help.” “NJMHI has been very innovative. It doesn’t follow the charge; it takes the lead, and it’s a very needed organization in the whole ecosphere of mental health, especially now. NJMHI has been able to adapt with the environment and has a high level of credibility because it was created based upon a need we see in our mental health,” Dr. Womack said. “NJMHI is ahead of its time with providing education, working to eliminate stigma and reaching out to other communities where mental health is not talked about,” Dr. Womack added. “NJMHI’s impact has been felt and continues to be.”