Why I Work for CHADS: Advocating for Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
At CHADS, our mission is to advance the awareness and prevention of depression and suicide among adolescents and young adults. Jo Ellen, an embedded family support therapist in Kirkwood, shares her journey and highlights the reasons why she remains dedicated to upholding CHADS’ mission and its crucial role in advocating for youth mental health.
Connecting with Clients to Make a Positive Impact
Jo Ellen’s journey with CHADS began in late October 2021. Since then, she has found immense fulfillment in forming relationships with clients and parents, witnessing their transformation from their lowest points to a positive and hopeful outlook. Through counseling, Jo Ellen equips her clients with essential coping skills and helps them regulate their emotions, fostering personal growth and resilience.
A Rewarding Commitment to CHADS' Mission
CHADS' unwavering commitment to helping individuals facing mental health challenges resonates deeply with Jo Ellen. The values and morals upheld by CHADS and the inspiring story founders Marian and Larry, who turned their personal tragedy into a beacon of hope, fuel Jo Ellen’s dedication. She finds CHADS an immensely rewarding workplace, given its profound impact on countless lives.
Importance of CHADS' Mental Health Advocacy in the Community
CHADS plays a pivotal role in addressing the lack of awareness and understanding surrounding mental health issues within the community. Jo Ellen emphasizes the significance of mental health education to empower students, parents, and the wider community. CHADS' impactful programs, including the SOS presentations, provide essential knowledge and hope to individuals struggling with mental health. Overcoming the stigma associated with mental health remains a challenge, but CHADS' advocacy work is crucial in fostering a safe and supportive environment.
“I love working with CHADS and forming relationships with clients. Helping someone go from their darkest moment to having hope is truly rewarding.”
A Holistic Approach to Self-Care and Well-being
Recognizing the importance of self-care, Jo Ellen prioritizes activities that nurture her physical and emotional well-being. Regular exercise, spending time in nature with her puppy Indie, engaging in stress-relieving activities like coloring, and maintaining meaningful relationships contribute to her overall balance and well-being. Jo Ellen ensures she can continue to be a steadfast support system for her clients by taking care of herself.
A Personal Calling to Youth Mental Health Advocacy
Jo Ellen’s journey to CHADS was influenced by personal experiences and a profound calling to help others. Witnessing a close friend's near-suicide experience propelled her to pursue a career centered on mental health advocacy. Her studies in child and family development solidified her passion for supporting individuals and families facing mental health challenges. Joining CHADS provided Jo Ellen the platform to make a profound difference in youth mental health and suicide prevention.
Final Thoughts
By advocating for mental health awareness, fostering empathy and understanding, and breaking down the barriers that surround mental health, CHADS continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals. Jo Ellen’s passion and the collective efforts of CHADS's dedicated team help create a brighter future for youth struggling with mental health issues.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, please contact a mental health professional or dial 988 to speak with someone immediately. Visit our current job openings on Indeed and learn more about joining our mission at https://bit.ly/3Oyj34p. Together, we can raise awareness, provide vital support, and empower young individuals to lead fulfilling lives with hope and resilience.