Leading the Charge to Solve the Mental Health Workforce Crisis

"This position has allowed us to have a targeted strategy to impact the training of students and employees so that they are better able to respond to mental health needs."

National Mental Health Corps members serve at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, delivering Mental Health First Aid and Question, Persuade, Refer to build life-saving skills on campus. National Mental Health Corps members have amplified campus-wide focus on mental health and well-being, strengthened retention of students and employees, and unlocked the capacity to deliver high-impact workshops and programs with expert coordination and passion.

“National Mental Health Corps members have been a huge part in our capacity building for 988. In the months following the 988 launch, for both the state of Virginia calls and national backup, we had an over 95% answer rate and they were without a doubt a part of that.”

National Mental Health Corps members have played an essential role in expanding crisis support services at HopeLink Behavioral Health, specifically through chat lines. Members have been vital to strengthening community outreach efforts, including providing safety checks and wellness calls for older adults.  Through hands-on experience in crisis intervention and public health, members develop valuable skills while making a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.

"In just a short time, our member has taken on significant leadership roles, preparing to lead the Provider Workshop in two weeks and working toward her NAMI National Certification to teach NAMI Smarts. She has also successfully produced the Holding Hope presentation training.”

The National Mental Health Corps member activities enable NAMI Missouri to expand programs to new populations and communities, improve outreach efforts and offer more NAMI Signature Programs. This expansion has provided critical mental health support to a broader audience, including those who have not previously accessed NAMI Missouri services. Outreach efforts have helped raise awareness about mental health issues, connecting individuals with vital support resources, and promoting NAMI’s mission within the community.

"Our National Mental Health Corps member has exceeded our expectations at Bellarmine University, and it has been a win-win for our University and Counseling Center. She has been implementing Question, Persuade, Refer and Mental Health First Aid on campus for students, faculty, and staff.”

The National Mental Health Corps member serving at Bellarmine University is expanding overall mental health and wellness education on campus.  With a recent growth to a D-I school, the member is focusing efforts on student athletes, along with the general campus community. Service includes educating about crisis services, networking with community partners, promoting Fresh Check Days, and coordinating Be Kind to Your Mind events.

Crisis Text Line • New York

Axel was trained as a certified Crisis Counselor, supporting 988 texters and helping them navigate their crises using empathy, care, and compassion. Axel developed personally and professionally and was most proud of the growth in his counseling skills which directly aligned with his career goals.

Axel plans on becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and eventually earning his PhD in Social Work. Empowered by his service, Axel intends to focus on the Mental and Behavioral Health of LGBTQIA+ communities.

Squirrel Health Center • Pennsylvania

Sarah was trained as a certified Question, Persuade, Refer instructor and trained nearly 300 participants in this suicide prevention program. Sarah collaborated with many diverse organizations including the Latino Community Center and Bhutanese Community Association of Pittsburgh, as well as various schools, government organizations, and migrant and religious communities.

Sarah now attends the University of Pittsburgh, pursuing a dual program earning her Master’s in Public Health and Social Work, working toward her goal of becoming a Licensed Social Worker and focusing on research, policy, and non-profit foundations.

211 Broward County • Florida

Kindy was trained as a certified Crisis Counselor, supporting 988 callers through empathetic support and active listening. Kindy also engaged with 211 Broward County programs dedicated to supporting veterans, the elderly and children with behavioral or mental health conditions.

Kindy has since joined 211 Broward as a full-time employee and has plans to earn a PhD in Psychology, researching and providing counseling services to those who need it.

NAMI Johnson County • Iowa

Bella was trained as a certified Adult Mental Health First Aid instructor and established two NAMI on Campus chapters - at the University of Iowa and Iowa City High School. Bella worked with several key organizations, including the Suicide Prevention Coalition in Johnson County, University Counseling Services at the University of Iowa, Johnson County Health and Human Services, expanding mental health resources and building community connections. Bella was also able to attend the NAMI Iowa Conference through her placement.

Bella’s experience influenced her to stay in the nonprofit sector.  Bella plans on pursuing a Masters in Social Work and Public Policy.

NAMI Prince William • Virginia

Somayya was trained as a certified Teen Mental Health First Aid and NAMI Ending the Silence instructor, training nearly 300 students in mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Somayya was able to bring two programs to a local mosque including a mental health workshop for Afghans in the Dari language.

Somayya’s experience solidified her desire to work in the mental health field. Somayya plans on pursuing a Masters in Social Work and is interested in working with NAMI in the future.