Local nonprofit hosts summit to improve mental health access
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, and here at home, one local group is working to bring resources to the community.
Natalie Bryan, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of P.E.A.R.L hosted the third annual Mentally Wellthy Summit on Saturday.
It took place at the Richmond County Public Library.
Bryan said the goal was about breaking down the barriers to mental health resources.
“I wanted to humanize mental health so that people can meet the clinicians, know that they are human and normal, that they are easy to talk to, find out what their services are. And really engage by breaking down the barriers for them to access care,” said Bryan.
There is another mental health event planned for the fall focusing on self-care around the holidays to provide some tips and tools for people at that time.
According to Mental Health America, Georgia ranks 48th in the United States for access to mental health care, resources, and insurance.
Bryan is seeing an increase in clients.
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“I have an influx of referrals for everything. Stuff as basic as stress at work, all the way up to depressive episodes, sometimes the diagnosis of bipolar disorder.”
She started the nonprofit P.E.A.R.L., which stands for providing education and advocacy to rebuild lives.
“Three main topics are mental health, human trafficking, and abuse. We try to educate so that we can create safer environments in our homes and our community,” she said.
A way she’s helping is through her annual mental wealth summit.
Her free event Saturday included conversations with community leaders specializing in mental health.
“Programs like this really help to educate the community about what resources are in their community, who will be able to help them and also cost and all the other things that go with getting the care you need,” Bryan said.
She holds this event in conjunction with National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.
“A lot of times in communities of color, or other communities, the disparity or the complexity of getting help is a lot more stringent. When you’re looking at finances and accessibility those are some challenges,” she said.
Bryan says recognizing “it’s OK not to be OK” is the first step.
“It’s alright that I didn’t get it right this first time and allow ourselves the grace to be able to come back and try again, so it’s OK not to be OK,” Bryan said.
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