Clinical therapy is not always the only issue relevant to mental health. Other
mental-health concerns are just as important but
often would go unaddressed without organizations such as the Mental Health
Association of Tompkins County, a United Way agency.
"We have to deal with the stigma of mental illness," said Beth Jenkins, executive director of the Mental Health Association of Tompkins County, "especially in a small population like this one, so that people won't be afraid. They know that the loss of a job can lead to problems, but they need to know that things like the birth of a baby, a new job, and a new home are all life changes that cause stress, as well."
The Mental Health Association of Tompkins County is a private, not-for-profit agency that aims to increase public awareness about mental-health issues.
It provides a number of "soft" services, including referral and education. Staff workers and volunteers speak confidentially with clients, directing them to services according to their needs. They also host informational workshops and professional forums and visit churches, schools and other community groups to educate the public about mental health and illness.
The association combines this informational role with more "direct" services. For example, it houses the Respite Program, which helps families with emotionally disturbed children by providing up to six hours of weekly child care.
The association also is home to the ASFriends program, which matches service recipients with volunteers to give them support and companionship. A large and widely eclectic group benefits from the different programs. Clients suffering from schizophrenia, depression and stress-induced anxiety can find services to fit their needs. More than 3,500 clients were helped last year.
Part of the Mental Health Association's ability to help so many people stems from its relationship with United Way of Tompkins County. Funding from the Tompkins County Mental Health Department goes primarily to services that target serious illness. Assistance for individuals with lesser problems is funded by United Way allocations.
Jenkins, the association's executive director for only a year, is planning some new outreach efforts. The association will develop a yearly calendar to address mental-health problems specific to a particular month or event. Jenkins cited Black History month as an example, stating that the agency would publish articles in February to address potentially stress-inducing multicultural issues.
"These articles will tell us how we can look at issues and begin to address them from a proactive and not just a reactive stance," she said.
The Mental Health Association first opened its doors in Ithaca in 1953. Its offices are at 225 South Fulton Street.
Today, Thursday, Oct. 9, free depression screenings are being offered for staff and faculty in 163 Day Hall at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The free screenings include a written self-test for depression, a screening interview with a mental health professional and an educational presentation. For information, call the Cornell Employee Assistance Program at 255-1531.