BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month Wraps Up, But Continue the Conversation

As July’s BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, the Office of Employee Wellness and Wellbeing (OEWW) encourages you to continue the vital efforts to reduce mental health stigma and normalize conversations about seeking support. Although the dedicated awareness month is behind us, the dialogue around mental health should remain active, and NOVA community members are urged to utilize the resources available.

• BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit: Mental Health America’s 2024 BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit offers free, practical resources aimed at:
  • Navigating mental health stigma
  • Bridging generational differences
  • Dismantling mental health myths
  • Encouraging meaningful conversations

This toolkit is a helpful resource for fostering understanding and providing guidance on addressing mental health within BIPOC communities.

• TimelyCare: Your unique experience matters. TimelyCare’s diverse network of providers, with over 50% identifying as BIPOC, is available to support you on your wellness journey. TimelyCare services are accessible to all members of the NOVA community:
  • For employees: Visit NOVAnet for detailed information.
  • For students: Access resources through NOVA’s website.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): All health plans offered to state employees and their dependents include Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that are available 24/7. These programs provide confidential support for a wide range of personal and professional issues, ensuring that help is always available when needed.

By maintaining an open dialogue and leveraging available resources, we can all contribute to creating a more inclusive, supportive, and understanding environment where mental health is prioritized for everyone. Let’s work together to ensure that the spirit of BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month extends throughout the year, making mental health support a lasting priority in our community.

Submitted By:
Faith Redd-Walker, Office Of Employee Wellness And Wellbeing, employeewellbeing@nvcc.edu