Mental health momentum
In this issue of Aspects, we highlight some of SIU Medicine's individuals and programs advancing mental health support. As the nation grapples with challenges such as limited access to mental health services, shortages of providers and widespread misconceptions about mental health issues, SIU champions are actively seeking solutions.
Growing Illinois’ behavioral health workforce
In 2017, Dr. Kari Wolf launched her campaign to begin growing Illinois' behavioral health workforce. In March 2023, with SIU Medicine as the primary hub, the Behavioral Health Workforce Center (BHWC) was officially launched to create and build innovative initiatives to recruit, educate and retain Illinois' behavioral health professionals.
Plant one seed
5 questions with agricultural mental health counselor and podcaster Adrienne DeSutter
Brushing away isolation
Loneliness and isolation are worsening mental health in seniors. Creating community and providing education can help create the solution.
Lee leads Art Express, a program within the Smith Alzheimer’s Center at SIU Medicine that gives those with dementia a chance to express themselves without having to verbalize their feelings. On its face, it’s a valuable program as it gives those with dementia a better quality of life. It allows caregivers to breathe.
“Most of the elderly hesitate to get help for depression and other mental health issues due to the stigma associated with mental health. They just don’t bring it up when they see their provider. The current generation is a little bit more open compared to the previous one, but there is still a lot more work that needs to be done.”
- Dr. Kalyan Kandra, assistant professor of psychiatry
Kari Wolf: Turning ripples into waves
Kari Wolf, MD, has never been afraid of making waves. The chair of SIU Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry joined SIU Medicine in 2016, and within her first year in Illinois, she looked at systemic ways to build up Illinois’ behavioral health workforce. Her work eventually led to the launch of the Behavioral Health Workforce Center in 2023, with SIU Medicine serving as the primary hub to provide coordination and support. While creating innovative ways of delivering mental health services, Wolf makes sure everything she does is through the perspective of training the next generation of health care providers.
Wolf also strives to safeguard her own mental health through a work-life balance. Her family and personal interests keep her grounded so she can continue to impact systemic changes for better mental health for everyone.
A day in the life of a resident physician
Life as a resident physician is not for the faint of heart. They must balance patient care, ongoing medical education and training requirements. Resident well-being is part of an ongoing national discussion as medical programs seek to reduce stress and prevent burnout among trainees.
Dr. Julio Mendoza Estrada is a second-year internal medicine resident. We followed him on a typical clinic day to learn how he handles the stresses of resident life.
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New emphasis on student, resident mental health, wellness
No one ever said medical school was easy. The prevalence of mental health struggles in medical school is well-known, and studies show that medical students experience disproportionately higher rates of depression and burnout. So, what is SIU School of Medicine doing to help its learners?
“I make it a point to tell the students, at the end of the day you're still human. Just because you are working toward this amazing degree does not lessen your emotions when you go through stressful times or struggle with balancing life and ambition.”
- Stephanie Forgas, LCPC
Dr. Kevin Simon
SIU alumnus Dr. Kevin Simon (’15) is Boston's first chief behavioral health officer, tasked with improving mental health for the city of 700,000. Simon says his medical school training at SIU prepared him for the tensions inherent in the space where policy meets practice. He’s been preparing for this challenging opportunity his entire professional life.
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ALL ALUMNI REUNION 2024
