Mental Health Matters: Making Culture Work Forum

Mental Health Matters: Making Culture Work

A forum about mental health disparities in the workplace in conjunction with the 166th annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association in San Francisco on May 17, 2013.  This interactive program highlighted the issue of mental health disparities, why they matter to employers, and what companies can do to take action.  This event was open to psychiatrists, employers and members of the community.

Many companies recognize the connection between mental health and their company’s bottom line. They are investing in employees to ensure that their most valued asset – their workforce – is healthy physically and mentally. But how can an employer ensure that the needs of their diverse workforce are being adequately addressed? The 2001 Surgeon General Report, Mental Health: Culture, Race, and Ethnicity, highlighted the greater burden of unmet mental health needs faced by minorities compared to other populations. Employers can play a crucial role in eliminating the barriers that persist in diverse populations being able to access and utilize behavioral health services.

Featured Speakers & Presentations

Lisa Jing, MA, BA, Founder/CEO of Synergy at Work, Inc

Employer Practices

Annelle B. Primm, MD, MPH, Deputy Medical Director and Director of the Office of Minority and National Affairs, American Psychiatric Association

Why Race, Ethnicity and Culture Matter

Keris Jan Myrick, MBA, MS, Ph.D.c, President and CEO, Project Return Peer Support Network

I Want a Job, a House, and a Date on Saturday Night – Goals of People Living with Mental Illness

Hyong Un, MD, Head of EAP and Chief Psychiatric Officer, Aetna

A Case for Health Care Equity

Forum Handouts & Video Links

AETNA-FullReport

Addressing_Racial_and_Ethnic_Health_Disparities_Employer_Initiatives

Diversity Report

“Mental Health: A Guide for African Americans and Their Families” (video)

“Mental Health: A Guide for Latinos and Their Families” (video)