Support and promote area nonprofits

Needs in the New Year | Okpara Rice

The year 2022 forced us to comprehend our new normal and understand how it affected us not only economically and professionally but also how it impacted our well-being. Throughout the year, we became acutely aware of our need for connectedness and discovered that reaching out for help during times of struggle was a remedy that brought with it comfort and healing. Another lesson learned was that mental health challenges know no socio-economic barrier.

For more than a century, Tanager has been an advocate for mental well-being and has delivered prevention, treatment, and outreach services to children and families throughout Iowa. In our line of work, we are bombarded with reports confirming that all of us, particularly our youth, continue to struggle with mental health. As I reflect on 2022 and look ahead to 2023, I have identified two actions that we, as a community, can implement to combat the widespread decline in our mental health. First, the importance of our mental health must demand our full attention. Secondly, we must acknowledge and recognize that our mental health matters as much as that of our physical health.

It is no secret that mental well-being is critical in every aspect of our lives, and it is also no secret how easily distracted we are by everything that requires our attention throughout the day. As we face these everyday distractions, it is critical that we all remain vigilant and earnest in our efforts to advocate for effective resources, in using our voice for those who have no voice, and in opening doors for those who are confronted with roadblocks. Roadblocks do not discriminate. Roadblocks are a part of our lives, and they exist everywhere. We can manage these roadblocks more skillfully if we are connected, committed, and compelled to regard mental well-being as essential and integral to our quality of life.

Fortunately, we have many worthy nonprofits in our community that are committed to improving the well-being of our family members, friends, and neighbors. I urge you to support and promote our area nonprofits: be informed, employ their services, get involved. Through our combined efforts, it's entirely possible that the challenges of 2022 can become the victories of 2023.

Okpara Rice is chief executive officer of Tanager Place.