May is Mental Health Awareness Month – a month dedicated to mental health awareness, education, advocacy, and working to end the stigma. It is also the perfect time to get connected with resources to improve your mental health and lend support to others.

An increasing number of healthcare workers have struggled with their mental health in recent years, since the start of the pandemic. Fortunately, resources are available to help individuals care for themselves and their mental health.

However, many people still may feel apprehensive about seeking the appropriate care, support, and services they need. Some fear the stigma of seeking help, need support finding resources, or don’t know where to start.

Loretto offers an in-house support system, which begins with our employee coach. Our coach helps empower employees through guidance to help with any challenges, struggles, or barriers that might interfere with their success in their careers here at Loretto.

What is great about having an in-house employee coach is that they not only provide resources but can also provide support by lending a listening ear to those who are struggling. And – it’s all confidential. Eleanor Williams, Manager of Employee Experience at Loretto, shared, “I think that one of the best parts of having an employee coach is having someone you can talk to at any time. Working in healthcare can be stressful, and sometimes we don’t realize how that stress weighs on us.”

Access to an employee coach is a unique benefit to Loretto employees. Through this program, our employees have support from someone who takes the time to listen and can connect them with resources in the community and within the organization.

An additional resource that Loretto offers is a Healthcare Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Through Loretto’s partnership with the EAP, employees and their families have access to a 24/7 mental health support line where they can speak to clinical professionals.

Additionally, three free therapy sessions are available to our employees and their family through the EAP. And, the number of sessions can often be extended to help create and establish an ongoing relationship with a one-on-one counselor on a case-by-case basis.

EAP also offers additional services including:

• One-to-one professional coaching for stress management, resilience, and wellness issues
• Online self-help resources, assessments, and video courses for mental health issues
• Access to online mental healthcare through Rivia Mind

Interested in working for a healthcare company that not only understands the importance of mental health but also provides valuable support and a multitude of employee resources? Find your future at Loretto today:  https://lorettocny.org/future/