Lowcountry Nurse Highlights needs the connection, access to mental health care

Charleston, SC (toilet) – May marks the month of consciousness for mental health, and experts in mental health in lowcountry ask the community to break the stigma and support those who tacitly struggle with mental illnesses.

Ryan Mitchell, a nurse at Live Oak Mental Health and Wellness, said that Stigma often obtains helping help.

“This stigma, which is connected to mental health, also pushes people into the closet, which means that they want to keep it private,” said Mitchell, who has been working in psychiatric care for almost a decade. “As the world came, people were increasingly susceptible and require much more support than ever.”

Mitchell has been working on Live Oak since the opening of the facility in June 2022. For him, nursing is more than a career, especially in the psychiatric area.

“We have opened a new psychiatric facility that our community urgently needs,” he said. “I had the opportunity to meet a need. It's super worthwhile. That's why I get up and come every day.”

The month of consciousness for mental health, which has been observed nationally every May, aims to improve the public understanding of mental illnesses and encourage people to find help if they need them.

“Each of five of us will have a need for mental health during our lives,” said Matthew Dorman, director of clinical operations at Live Oak. “But 50 percent of those who need care are not looking for it.”

Untreated problems with mental health can have far -reaching effects, including employment, relationships and physical health, said Dorman.

He noticed a particularly worrying increase in depression and fear in young people, especially between the ages of 10 and 30. According to Dorman, a large part of this increase can be attributed to the effects of social media.

“If you know someone who suffers from mental health problems, please check him,” said Dorman. “Just be authentic with them and say: 'I'm worried about you. What can I do to help?”

He also asked the community to be aware of the available resources. The Lifeline of 988 Suicide & Crisis is a free, nationwide number that supports people in need around the clock.

Mitchell said that it can make the difference to be present for someone.

“You can see a patient going through the front door in one direction and you can watch how they get better,” he said. “It's just a nice experience that I am lucky that God has blessed me to be part of it.”

His message to the community during the month of consciousness for mental health is simple.

“You are not alone. You are loved and there is help,” said Mitchell.

Local providers, community groups and national organizations such as the National Alliance on Psychical Illness (Nami) organize events and offer all month through educational resources.

You can find more information at Nami.org or call 988.

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