I AM NAMI Kansas

#8 - Navigating Mental Health Parity: Insights from Experts

Discover how mental health parity laws are transforming insurance coverage for mental health and substance use disorders. In this episode, Isaac sits down with experts Beth Baum and Leondra Dodd from the U.S. Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration to discuss the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MAPEA), recent regulation updates, and how they impact your rights. Learn about compliance, red flags to watch for, and how to access critical resources. Resources: * Contact EBSA: 1-866-444-3272 * Ask EBSA: askebsa.dol.gov [https://askebsa.dol.gov] * Visit the DOL website for more: www.dol.gov/ebsa

#7 - Navigating Mental Health in Military Families

Our guests, Tim and Tara Gwynn, share their personal journey through the challenges of military service, PTSD, and recovery. Tim, a retired combat engineer, and Tara, a dedicated NAMI volunteer, open up about their experiences with mental health struggles, the impact of military life on their relationship, and the transformative power of advocacy and support. This episode offers a compassionate look at the realities faced by veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and sharing stories of hope.

#6 - Raising Awareness for Minority Mental Health

In this episode, we explore the critical intersection of mental health and race, shedding light on the profound implications of systemic racism on mental well-being. Honoring Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, we trace the origins of this observance back to the relentless advocacy of Bebe Moore Campbell.  Joined by guests Itzel Moya and SJ Hazim, the discussion navigates through the experiences of minorities facing mental health challenges in Kansas, exploring cultural stigmas, systemic barriers, and personal narratives that highlight the urgent need for inclusivity and understanding in mental health care. Join us and together we can amplify voices from the community, offering insights and fostering a deeper conversation about mental health equity.

#5 - How Roller Derby Empowers Mental Health Recovery

In this episode of "I Am NAMI Kansas," we sit down with members of the Capital City Crushers roller derby team to discuss their personal journeys with mental health. From anxiety to overcoming loss, these resilient skaters share how the camaraderie and consistency of roller derby provide them with support, purpose, and a vital mental health routine. Listen to hear their inspiring stories, the importance of finding a supportive community, and how physical activity plays a crucial role in their well-being. Don't miss this uplifting conversation, and be sure to join us at the upcoming NAMI Walks event to support mental health advocacy. NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas NAMI Smarts: https://namikansas.org/support-and-education/presentations/nami-smarts-for-advocacy/ NAMI Kansas Event Calendar: https://namikansas.org/calendar/ Fast Democracy: https://fastdemocracy.com/ Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com

#4 - How to Improve Mental Health in the Kansas Justice System

Welcome back to "I Am NAMI Kansas," the podcast where we explore mental health topics with a local focus. In this episode, we delve deep into the critical intersection of the criminal justice system and mental health in Kansas, revealing the challenges and opportunities within our local jails and prisons. Join us as we discuss the significant mental health issues facing incarcerated individuals across the state with a range of experts and firsthand accounts. Our guests include Itzel, a NAMI Kansas employee from Western Kansas, who will share insights on the Assisted Outpatient Treatment program, and Dr. Brittany Harmes, who discusses the Justice Involved Person Project. We also hear from Captain Mark French from the Riley County Jail about the practical challenges and initiatives within the corrections system. Lastly, Christa Redd, a resident at Reno County Jail, offers a powerful personal testimony about her experiences with mental health and the justice system. This episode provides a comprehensive look at how mental health care is integrated within the justice system, the effectiveness of court-ordered treatments, and personal stories of struggle and advocacy. Whether you're a mental health professional, someone affected by these issues, or simply interested in the state of mental health care in Kansas, this episode offers valuable perspectives and solutions. Don't forget to subscribe for more discussions and insights into mental health in Kansas. Share this episode to help spread awareness and understanding about the vital link between mental health and the criminal justice system. NAMI Walks: https://namiwalks.org/kansas NAMI Smarts: https://namikansas.org/support-and-education/presentations/nami-smarts-for-advocacy/ NAMI Kansas Event Calendar: https://namikansas.org/calendar/ Fast Democracy: https://fastdemocracy.com/ Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com