Illinois, like many states across the country, is facing a mental health crisis. Each year in our state, one in five adults experiences a mental illness, and almost half a million have a serious mental illness. This means many of us have family members, friends, neighbors or co-workers with mental health challenges.
At UChicago Medicine, our values call us to lead with heart and compassion to create positive change and heal our community. With a commitment to ensuring that no one faces mental health challenges alone, UChicago Medicine has invested in behavioral health services at Ingalls Memorial over the past several years. From expanding inpatient and outpatient care to adding new providers and screening tools, we are dedicated to making a meaningful impact in this critical area.
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. They bring focus on educating the public, encouraging screenings for depression and other mental health conditions, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Mental well-being can be influenced by many factors, including environmental, genetic, psychological and biological/biochemical. While no two people experience depression the same way, the good news is that it is a highly treatable, with many effective options available.
This month also highlights the importance of accessible and affordable mental health screenings. Understanding depression is the first step toward recovery, which is why promoting open dialogue and increasing access to resources are vital. Throughout October, our Behavioral Health team is offering mental health screenings to all patients, staff and visitors at no cost. If you or someone you know is struggling, please encourage them to seek professional help and take advantage of this opportunity.
UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital is again proud to sponsor the National Alliance on Mental Illness’ statewide conference, taking place October 17-18. Our support helps provide free mental health services across the state, without eligibility requirements, and expands access to critical resources.
Through meaningful connections, grassroots advocacy and local action, we can strengthen mental healthcare in our community, reduce suffering and save lives.
Thanking you for all you do for our patients and each other,
Mike A.
Michael Antoniades, MPA, President of UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital
