Ideas That Work: Socks Over Stigma

Mental health is often overlooked or not talked about because people are ashamed of sharing how they feel, or afraid of what others might think if they ask for help. My facility is working to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. On one occasion, staff were encouraged to wear green socks — green represents mental health awareness — to show our support for those who are suffering in silence or who care for a loved one battling an emotional, psychological or social disorder.

Wearing symbolic socks may not seem impactful, but banding together as a team in this way could make it easier for someone who needs help to seek it through an employee-assistance program or with a professional counselor, or simply reach out to a co-worker they trust to talk about how they're feeling. I challenge you to remove the barriers that prevent people from pursuing treatment and create an environment that supports mental health awareness.

Daphyne Ressler, RN, BSN
Evangelical Ambulatory Surgical Center
Lewisburg, Pa.
[email protected]