Advocating Mental Wellness Awareness & Therapeutic Team Bonding
Written by HRCap, Inc.
July 21, 2022
The pandemic has spiked both physical and mental health conditions. According to Mental Health America 2022 studies, 19.86% (nearly 50 million) of adults in America experience mental illness.
American Psychiatric Association defines mental illness as a “health condition involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses are associated with distress and/or problems functioning social, work or family activities.”
To address mental health issues, companies and organizations have created benefits and programs that improve employees’ mental health, such as mental health days, insurance that covers therapy, increasing awareness, or participating in mental health activities.
One statewide non-profit organization that addresses these concerns is National Alliance on Mental Illness New Jersey (NAMI NJ). NAMI aims to improve the lives of those affected by mental illness by providing education, support, and public awareness programs.
HRCap and Mental Wellness
NAMI's Intensive Family Support Services Program (IFSS) provides supportive activities that improve the quality of life for those affected with mental health issues. Most recently, IFSS of Middlesex County held its “Wellness Painting in the Park” event at Donaldson Park in Highland Park on Saturday, July 16.
IFSS hosted this public event to advocate for painting, which reduces mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. In fact, an independent 2017 study shows that people who participate in group artistic activities have felt less anxious, depressed, and felt more socially included.
HRCap also attended the event to show support for mental well-being. Roughly 25 people attended the event and the audience consisted mostly of families. Tables were set up with easels, canvases, paint, and brushes and were socially distanced. The whole event took about three hours, and during this time an instructor and volunteers guided everyone throughout the therapeutic painting process.
After watercolor painting on a canvas, our employees shared that they felt much more at ease and less stressed. They also shared how it was a great team bonding and networking experience:
HRCap testimonial on NAMI Event
HRCap attends NAMI "Wellness Painting in the Park"
We hope to continue to work with NAMI and actively support future events to raise awareness and promote greater mental wellness at HRCap and our client communities. We strongly encourage all organizations to find creative ways to improve employees’ emotional and mental well-being and provide the necessary support to create an inclusive and sustainable workforce.
Sources: HRCap, American Psychiatric Association, Mental Health America, NAMI NJ, The Guardian