In an effort to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and distress, UNMC and Nebraska Medicine are working together to publicize assistance available for colleagues across the organization.
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Counseling resources and programs are now highly visible on both intranets and include employee assistance programs, health care benefits, counseling and clinic information and wellness programs.
UNMC and Nebraska Medicine also will be incorporating the ICU Program into its initiative. The ICU program — ICU stands for “Identify. Connect. Understand.” — is a Partnership for Workplace Mental Health initiative that encourages coworkers to watch for signs of distress in their colleagues.
Available resources
A new link has been added to the UNMC intranet main page, called “Counseling Resources.” It links to phone numbers and other available resources. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to become familiar with the link and resources and share them in the event their coworkers need support.
It includes three basic steps:
- Identify the signs of distress;
- Connect with the person experiencing distress; and
- Understand the way forward together.
Steven Wengel, M.D. and David Cates, Ph.D. introduce the program as part of a short video seen on the UNMC counseling services intranet page here.
“There are many resources available at UNMC and Nebraska Medicine to help students and colleagues who may be dealing with stressors or in need of a helping hand,” said Aileen Warren, director of UNMC Human Resources. “The ICU program — with its emphasis on the awareness and support of our fellow staff members, students and faculty — is a proactive and positive effort to eliminate the stigma of mental illness, mental distress, depression, or a need for counseling with a special focus on available avenues of caring and support.”
“It is important to note these materials also are available to students,” Warren said. “There is a coordinated effort across the campus to ensure the broadest possible inclusion of all employees and students to promote wellbeing and positive mental health.”
Frank Venuto, chief human capital officer for Nebraska Medicine said the program’s goal is to raise awareness about mental health and the resources available to help those who need support.
“We are committed to removing the stigma associated with mental distress and/or illness and as a healing institution, we want to provide support,” he said.