In this episode, host Jethro Jones interviews Barb Solish, the National Director of Innovation for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. They discuss the importance of mental health awareness, early intervention, and the impact of literacy in shaping children's futures. Barb shares insights into the Macy's and NAMI partnership, the importance of building strong connections through reading and other activities, and the crucial role of community support in mental health care.

For the interview between Barb and Erin, go here: https://transformativeprincipal.org

• Half of all mental health issues start before 14. 
• Only half of those who need it are getting the help they need. 
• Distinct warning signs. https://nami.org/signs
• Looking for changes. 
• Call a pediatrician 
• Conversation starters
• Find a support group
• When you are not alone, you have hope.
• Cathleen Beachboard on Resilient Schools talking about hope.
• Trauma Awareness Training
• Kids are a lot stronger than we give them credit for. 
• Outcomes for students - what are the outcomes we want. 
• Mental health education is health education.
• Focus on connection not perfection. 

Barb Solish: National Alliance on Mental illness

Barb Solish is NAMI’s National Director of Innovation. She is passionate about mental health awareness, education, and advocacy, especially after the loss of a friend to suicide. Barb’s lived experience developing a mental health condition as a young person also motivates her work improving outcomes for young people with mental health concerns.

In her time at NAMI, Barb has led NAMI’s Youth and Young Adult Initiatives team, developing new resources for kids, teens, young adults, educators, and caregivers. She also led the creation of new initiatives, including the virtual version of the NAMI Ending the Silence presentation program for middle and high school students and NAMI Next Gen, NAMI’s young adult advisory group. In addition to youth and young adult work, Barb oversees NAMI’s Workplace Mental Health Initiatives, including NAMI StigmaFree Workplace. Barb believes strongly that not only is creating a mentally healthy workplace the right thing to do, it’s an economic imperative.

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