Caring for Kids: Stacey Manning on Rural Children's Mental Health
You never know what walks in and just kind of be ready to deal with whatever it is. So, of course, you're dealing with the children and you're also dealing with the parents.
Imagine living in a rural area where mental health resources are scarce, especially for children. Stacey Manning, CHC's children's mental health program manager, dives into this pressing issue in this episode of 'Learn MORE with the CORE'. Manning takes us through her day-to-day experiences, revealing the unique challenges of providing mental healthcare to kids in Carthage, Henderson, Marshall, and other East Texas communities.
One key point she makes is that children's mental health isn't just about the kids; it's about the whole family. Manning explains how involving families can make a world of difference in a child's recovery journey. She also talks about the critical need for more mental health resources in rural areas, stressing that connecting schools to these services is vital for comprehensive care.
Manning doesn't shy away from discussing the evolving nature of mental health and the constant need to adapt. She shares some of the unexpected situations she encounters in her work and emphasizes the importance of coping skills and self-care for those in the mental healthcare field. Her stories are both eye-opening and inspiring, offering a glimpse into the real-world challenges and triumphs of working in children's mental health.
Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or someone interested in mental health, this episode provides valuable insights into the importance of family support and the urgent need for better resources. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the complexities of children's mental health in rural communities.