Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May. It’s meant to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, as well as raise awareness and advocate for resources and care options. At Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana, addressing mental health and having tools available are integral pieces of executing the last several years of our strategic plan, “One Goodwill.”

This includes ensuring that employees are aware of the Employee Assistance Program and TAVA Health, short and long-term therapy and mental health care options. Employees can be trained in Mental Health First Aid and have access to wellness grants, which can fund opportunities to better one’s overall health.

Additionally, the mental health strategist role was created to support the organization’s goals in this specific area. For nearly two years, Sarah Ash has fulfilled the role, forming relationships across the organization and partnering with different areas to develop ways to address the unique challenges they face supporting mental health.

“I feel like the role has shifted,” said Sarah. “With less stigma, conversations surrounding mental health are happening more frequently. I’m able to support leaders and teams navigating challenges in real time in addition to traditional resources and long term planning.”

Sarah enjoys the authenticity of her position and being able to connect with colleagues on a deeper level. However, her role isn’t the only aspect of the organization that has evolved in the past two years. With aspiring mental health professionals already employed around the organization, pathways for completing training and practicums have been developed. Five practicums have been completed so far, and there are three more planned for 2025.

“There are unique ways that we do things at Goodwill that are impactful and we can open that experience up to people who are learning how to impact people's lives,” said Sarah.

Taking advantage of resources and discussion about mental health are becoming a part of the daily fabric and culture at Goodwill. Mental health having such a prominent role at Goodwill is important for those who have critical needs, but also for those who are just going through the motions. As Sarah puts it, mental health is not just therapy – it’s a state of wellbeing.

“Think about your mental health as the soil you're planted in. If you have rocky and nutrient deficient soil, the plant is not going to flourish in the way that it should,” said Sarah. “Taking care of your mental health is not necessarily therapy and vacation, sometimes it's reflection on how you're showing up each day.”

Going through the motions negatively affects work, loved ones – and the ability to live life fully. Prioritizing mental health at Goodwill means that our employees are not only able to overcome challenges, but also find more enjoyment in their life pursuits.

For anyone experiencing mental health struggles, Sarah recommends finding connections.

“I would say that the biggest mental health need in the past year is connection – to others, to purpose and to the community,” said Sarah. “If you’re struggling with mental health, seeking connection is a good place to start.”