Mental health has been the scourge of all parts of today’s world. While it’s not limited to any socio or economic group, it’s still a “stigma that prevents individuals, families and close ones from seeking help.”
According to Network of Community Ministries, “In Texas, 3.3 million adults have a diagnosed mental health condition. 55% of adults with mental health conditions do not or cannot recieve treatment.”
Thanks to the generosity of the City of Richardson and the Ruth Ann Marmion Charitable Fund, Network is providing “big steps to launch compassionate and evidence-based mental health and wellness services.”
At no cost, the free programs will provide the following:
- The addition of two mental health professionals — Ashley Gonzales, a Qualified Mental Health Professional- QMHP, to “serve as our Clinical Case Manager” and Holly Packer, a Licensed Master Social Worker- LMSW, to provide individualized therapy for neighbors free of charge.
- Depression Screenings and Anxiety Screenings and a Self-Sufficiency Survey “for all incoming neighbors to help Network better understand and address their needs.”
- Parent Cafes to “provide support groups for any/all neighbors that need additional community and social connection.”
According to Network, that last item is important since “it is often … important for parents to find a space to talk about family and parenting without kids present. Parent Cafes are an opportunity for parents to discuss parenting, talk healthy parenting skills, share emotional needs and have a safe place to talk about issues and needs while children enjoy supervised, fun art projects.”
The Ruth Marmion Charitable Fund grant is the “largest individual donation to Network since the completion of its capital campaign in 2021.”
* Graphic/photo provided by Network of Community Ministries