May is Mental Health Awareness Month, but the truth is, the problem of mental illness is so big in this country that it needs more than just a month of recognition. Dr. Rpen Wagr, the CEO of Providence’s Well-Being Trust, is dedicated to advancing mental health nationwide and expanding access to and improving clinical care. In a recent interview, Dr. Wagr discussed the importance of addressing mental health issues and the work being done by Providence and Swedish to make a difference.
Dr. Wagr highlighted the staggering statistics of mental health struggles in America, with 43.8 million Americans facing mental health challenges every year. He emphasized the need for more meaningful social connections and the impact of factors like social media and the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health.
Providence has made a significant commitment to advancing mental, social, and spiritual health for all, including a $100 million investment in the Well-Being Trust. This investment has already impacted over 600,000 lives and provided life-saving care for thousands of individuals struggling with mental health issues.
One area of focus for Providence and Swedish is youth mental health, as suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people. Dr. Wagr discussed a transformative initiative in partnership with the Seattle Sounders and Renton School District to provide mental health support to 15,000 children at no cost. This initiative includes curriculum to empower students and teachers and addresses the stigma surrounding mental health.
Dr. Wagr emphasized the importance of being there for each other and not being afraid to have conversations about mental health. He shared resources for those struggling with mental health, including the 988 crisis line and websites like swedish.org and wellbeingtrust.org.
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, it’s important to remember that help is available for those struggling with mental health issues. Providence and Swedish are leading the way in advancing mental health care and providing support to those in need. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help out there.
