September 2023

For many, the month of September signals the end of summer, the beginning of autumn, and the start of a new school year. With respect to the calendar, Sapphire is the birthstone of September, it is most desired in its pure, rich blue color but is present in almost every color including pink, yellow and green. In the Middle Ages the gem was believed to protect those close to you from harm and also represented loyalty and trust.

September is also Suicide Prevention Month. The stigma associated with talking about and seeking behavioral health care can inhibit many health care workers from seeking the support they need. American Hospital Association member hospitals and health systems are working to reduce the stigma through programs that enhance psychological safety, create awareness about health care workers’ mental health and well-being, and eliminate fear around seeking support.

Improving Access to Behavioral Health and Well-Being

Resources: Health care workers can struggle to connect with needed resources when those resources are not made easily accessible. Barriers such as not knowing what types of services are offered through their hospital or health system, long wait times for accessing services and inadequate behavioral health provider coverage in the employees’ health plan all contribute to health care workers being deterred from seeking support. Learn more about how our members are offering a variety of options to pursue services, screenings and resources that make it easier for health care workers to identify, seek out, and ultimately receive care when it’s needed.

Job related stress can take a toll on a health care worker’s mental well-being. While we might not be able to change or eliminate some of these stressors, we can ensure that we have supports in place to help our health care workers navigate them.

“If you or a loved one are in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, please know that your life matters and that you are not alone. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone who needs help.”

To access the Lifeline, call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. For additional 988 Lifeline resources, visit www.aha.org.

We are Special People. HELLO WORLD!!!

The apostle Peter called us “a royal priesthood.” You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. (1Peter 2:9-10)

Too Blessed to Be Stressed