Ms. Melissa Beavers
Executive Director of Pupil Services, School District of Beloit
July 2023 - BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month
The month of July has long been recognized as a significant month to acknowledge and explore the critical issues surrounding mental health challenges and substance use disorders within Black and marginalized racial groups. July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Health Awareness Month, also known as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. The School District of Beloit recognizes the importance of honoring Bebe Moore Campbell and her trailblazing work in helping to shift the mental health culture and break down systemic barriers in underserved communities.
Dr. Bernice King once said, "My father literally fought his entire life to ensure the inclusion of all people because he understood that we were intertwined and connected together in humanity." These powerful words remind us of the importance of supporting one another's mental health and recognizing our shared humanity. That's why, this July, we want to shed light on the unique struggles marginalized individuals face when it comes to mental well-being.
Mental health affects all of us; it does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, or identity. Unfortunately, national statistics show that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) often face obstacles in accessing mental health services. They're less likely to have access to these services, less likely to seek help, and more likely to receive inadequate care or stop treatment prematurely.
We believe that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves fair and equal access to mental health care which is why we are committed to breaking the stigma and making it possible for everyone to access the support they need.
To address this issue head-on, we've teamed up with Care Solace. This fantastic resource offers complimentary and confidential mental health care coordination services to students, staff, and their families. Our goal is to ensure that everyone in our community can access the support they need when they need it. So, if you or someone you know requires assistance, check out these options:
1. Give them a call at (888) 515-7881: The Care Companions are available 24/7/365 and are ready to help you find an available mental health provider. Plus, they can offer support in over 200 languages so that language barriers won't be a problem!
2. Visit www.caresolace.com/beloit: Here, you can take matters into your own hands and search for mental health providers on the website. But if you prefer personalized assistance, feel free to connect with a Care Companion who will guide you through the process.
You can prioritize your own self-care and well-being by adding the following activities to your summer to-do list:
Embrace the great outdoors: Spending time outside has numerous benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and boosting creativity. Consider activities like walking, hiking, biking, gardening, or relaxing in a park.
Make time for loved ones: It's easy to get caught up in our daily routines and miss out on quality time with friends and family. This summer, prioritize reconnecting with your loved ones through shared meals, game nights, movie nights, or simply picking up the phone for a catch-up call.
Prioritize sleep: During busy times, our sleep habits can suffer. Make an effort to establish a consistent sleep schedule and give your body the rest it deserves.
Connect with others: Sharing experiences and normalizing struggles, celebrations, and healthy coping mechanisms helps individuals take proactive steps to improve their own mental well-being.
Everyone’s mental health matters. Use your voice to inspire change and help spread the word.
Thank you for being an integral part of the School District of Beloit. Your continued support and dedication to the well-being of our entire community are truly appreciated. I wish you a happy and healthy summer break, and we will see you again in September!
