FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2022
Media Contact: Katherine Trombetta
417-880-6306 or
[email protected]
Workforce Vibe Explores Mental Health from a Caregiver Perspective
The Department of Workforce Development has released it’s latest episode of Workforce Vibe, taking on the issue of mental health from the perspective of a caregiver. After her son was diagnosed at an early age, mom Alia Lee takes us through how she cares for and advocates for her son as he’s grown into adulthood.
“Caregiving and advocacy are crucial in helping someone faced with mental illness navigate different stages of life with different stressors,” said Sally Payne, Springfield’s Director of Workforce Development. “By shining a light on this topic we hope to show the challenges someone with a mental illness diagnosis faces in school and the workforce,” she added.
“I would encourage businesses and organizations who have employees that struggle with mental illness to be flexible with their schedule,” said Alia Lee. “With mental illness comes extra appointments with doctors and therapists, and showing grace to that student/employee can go a long way,” she said.
“I’m so proud of my friend Alia given all she’s been through and how she’s faced each struggle to help create a better situation for her son so he can feel comfortable meeting new people and holding down a job,” Payne said. “Advocates are crucial to helping shed light on the struggles those with mental illness face,” she added.
To listen to the full conversation you can access Workforce Vibe on most major podcast platforms including Apple iTunes and Spotify. You may also listen to all Workforce Vibe episodes on https://cityview.springfieldmo.gov under the podcasts section.
For media requests, contact Katherine Trombetta at 417-880-6306 or [email protected].
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