Conferences always bring excitement and anticipation for me. This especially holds true when the conference focuses on a subject that I am passionate about – particularly mental health.  When I learned this year’s National Council for Mental Wellbeing conference was being held in Philadelphia during Mental Health Awareness Month, I knew I had to be there. The conference absolutely met – and exceeded – my expectations!  In times filled with so much uncertainty and angst, I found peace in seeing the faces of others from across the country who remain passionate about the work and are dedicated to helping others.

One of the keynote speakers, Dr. Nzinga Harrison, challenged us to admit that some of our current clinical practices are stuck in the past but reminded us that we have the power to lead the future. Dr. Harrison also offered clinical tools to get the group thinking through a different lens. One tool was the Positive Childhood Experiences screen (PCEs). PCEs can influence childhood development and mitigate the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences. It was exciting to hear about how positive childhood experiences can help the brain heal from trauma and promote well-being in adulthood.

At the forefront of change is innovation. I attended sessions that focused on the importance of collaboration and integration. This is something I always knew was important but, considering the pending federal changes, it now feels more than urgent  – it is mandatory.  In the exhibitor hall, there were s demonstrations of technology to help move collaborative, person-centered care forward while also easing administrative burdens on clinical teams. I am hopeful that all providers and communities will have access to these tools one day.

A theme that resonated with me throughout NatCon was caring about how we care for others. To do that we must take time to care for ourselves. It is important for everyone to do self-assessments and gauge their own mental well-being. The NatCon Mindfulness Moments Checklist is one of many tools we can use.

Mental Health is more than an awareness month. It is important for us to support each other every day of every year. We are worth it.