StoppingStigma_Oct_2026

Continued from page 10 Stopping Stigma | October 2026 11 While Baker has observed the immediate impact of education through students sharing their mental health struggles and concern about friends during her presentations, she believes that much more needs to be done to support students. She has observed that many parents and educators can be reluctant to discuss mental health. “If we don’t talk about it, how are we going to make progress? If I don’t talk about Kenny, how can I help other kids?” Baker said, referring to her son who took his own life in 2009. “Students hear Kenny’s story and they don’t want to end up like him. They want to get help,” she stated. “Much more research is needed to develop a better understanding of the brain and why it malfunctions. Funding for research is much less for mental health disorders than cancer and other physical health conditions,” Baker added. This disparity is also evidence of stigma, as is lack of parity between health insurance coverage for physical and behavioral health care. Dr. Womack shared a different perspective on the need for much more progress toward eliminating stigma. “I worry that progress only comes in response to someone hurting themselves or someone else. Then, there’s the cry for more services. It seems that legislation is developed only after violent situations occur. But, mental healthcare budgets are being cut,” he said. The media plays a significant role in both good and bad ways. According to Dr. Swarbrick, “Many reporters say murderers must have mental illness, but this isn’t done as much as in the past. Now, more of the language in the media is neutralizing.” “It’s all about education. It’s important to know that it’s okay to be sad and ask for help. And it’s critical to be aware of programs and other resources,” Rev. Flores stressed. Education should be provided both formally and informally. Examples of formal education are the programs that AIR (evidence-based programs) and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide offer, as well as presentations at conferences and community events. In addition, all types of healthcare providers, educators — actually, everyone — need to be trained, for example, in Mental Health First Aid. “Education is key to helping those around you and also yourself to recognize signs of things becoming more difficult,” Dr. Womack emphasized. Rev. Flores recommended that behavioral healthcare providers educate clergy and the broader community. “In health care, we need to build relationships and connect with others who have the same mission – to eliminate barriers,” he stressed. Regarding faith-based leaders, he stated, “As healthcare experts, we have to ensure clergy get healthcare professionals to their places of worship.” Proof that much more Progress Is Needed Recommendations Continued on page 12