A Message from Dr. Ann Gantt

Greetings,

My name is Dr. Ann Gantt. I would like to introduce myself as the new Counseling Supervisor here at New Hope. This is like a second…or should I say third coming for me as I have previously served at New Hope twice. My most recent departure was due to a family tragedy. It was important to me that I took the time that was needed to be alongside my family even more. I recently came across a newspaper clipping that I had held on to for all these years. At the time, I was the counselor sent by Family Service (now Pressley Ridge) through a partnership the agency had with New Hope. Pictured with me were former executive director Ken Zieber (whom I have maintained contact with throughout the years) and Dr. Jim Johnson (counselor sent by Shepherd’s Touch Counseling Ministry, now Upward Call Counseling Services). In the brief time since my return to New Hope, it has been no surprise to me to find the same warm and caring environment that I had left. The compassionate and skilled counselors that are here play a huge role in making that so.

Mental health disorders have risen in the United States. The increase is due to the rise in social media, the COVID-19 pandemic, and societal trends that have resulted in less community involvement. A sizable percentage of people go without treatment for mental illness every year.

Mental illness has a ripple effect. Beyond the individual, it affects families and communities. One in five U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. One in six U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year (National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI).

On a positive note, people are becoming increasingly aware of mental health problems and more supportive of people with them. People are also more aware of common mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. There is more willingness to talk to professionals and to seek treatment. Mental health is increasingly acknowledged as one part of a person’s overall health. For example, other parts are physical, spiritual, and professional health. There is also more emphasis on how to stay mentally well – for example by practicing self-care.

As National Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, I would like to leave you with some ideas for practicing self-care on a daily basis:

·         Eat healthy

·         Get some exercise

·         Just relax

·         Practice asking for and receiving help

·         Laugh

·         Practice forgiveness

·         Find spiritual community

·         Meditate

Have a happy and safe Memorial Day!

Ann Gantt, Ph.D, LCSW