The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte & Jason Haglund

Join us in celebrating National Rural Health Day on November 16th in this special episode of The Stepping In It Podcast. This day is dedicated to recognizing the critical role rural America plays in our nation's healthcare landscape. In this episode, we delve into the key messages of National Rural Health Day and explore why rural healthcare is not only unique but essential. The beautiful and challenging landscape of rural America calls for innovative and tailored approaches to healthcare. Rural America is not just an idyllic backdrop; it's also the driving force behind an evolving rural health infrastructure. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of National Rural Health Day, the importance of rural healthcare, and how organizations like Rural Policy Partners are working tirelessly to make healthcare accessible to all, regardless of their geographical location.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals in rural communities.
• Explore innovative solutions to improve healthcare outcomes in rural areas.
• Learn about the impact of opioid misuse in rural communities and potential interventions.
• Discover how access centers can provide holistic healthcare services to rural populations.
• Gain insights into the importance of self-care during the winter months for healthcare professionals and stakeholders in rural areas.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction

 00:03:13 - National Rural Health Day

 00:06:43 - Rural Health Infrastructure

 00:09:27 - Behavioral Health Care

 00:10:57 - Data on Rural Health

 00:14:02 - Increase in Drug Overdose Deaths

 00:15:17 - Life-Saving Options for Overdoses

 00:17:25 - Naloxone in Places of Worship

 00:19:37 - Behavioral Health as an Afterthought

 00:22:08 - Funding Challenges for Behavioral Health

 00:27:36 - The Limitations of Evidence-Based Practice

 00:28:15 - Innovative Solutions in Rural Health

 00:29:53 - Excitement for the Future of Rural Health

 00:31:57 - Setting Boundaries for Self-Care

 00:34:02 - Celebrating National Rural Health Day and Gratitude

Links:

• https://powerofrural.org/
• https://2n69d2.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NRHD2023_KeyMessagesDataPoints.pdf
• https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/ 
• https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/data-explorer 
• https://www.usda.gov/topics/opioids 
• https://www.ihs.gov/opioids/ 

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Attention, veterans seeking accessible mental health resources! Join us as we delve into the challenges faced by veterans and the importance of community and understanding in their journey back to civilian life. But what happens when the support they need is out of reach? Find out on this episode of The Stepping In It Podcast with Renee Schulte and Jason Haglund.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the importance of supporting veterans and how you can make a difference.
• Uncover accessible mental health resources designed specifically for veterans.
• Explore the connection between trauma and mental health, and learn strategies for coping and healing.
• Gain insights into the impact of physical and mental health on the well-being of veterans.
• Learn valuable self-care tips and techniques tailored to the needs of veterans.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Stepping in It podcast

 00:00:39 - Importance of Veterans Day

 00:03:21 - Changes in Veteran Support

 00:04:58 - Different Experiences of Veterans

 00:08:23 - PTSD and Mental Health in Veterans

 00:14:04 - Lack of Support for Veterans in their Communities

 00:15:18 - The Connection Between Trauma and Transition

 00:17:10 - Challenges with Medication and VA Services

 00:19:26 - The Role of 988 Suicide Hotline for Veterans

 00:22:09 - The Importance of Connection and Support

Links:

• https://www.va.gov/health/priorities/index.asp
• https://www.missionrollcall.org/post/state-of-veteran-suicide#:~:text=According%20to%20AWP's%20findings%2C%2022,taking%20their%20lives%20every%20day 
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499497/#:~:text=In%20the%20committee's%20survey%2C%2028,received%20a%20mental%20health%20diagnosis
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34283458/ 
• Veterans have a specific hotline to assist: https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/veterans/?utm_medium=Search&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=Vibrant,988SuicidePreventionMonth&gclid=CjwKCAjw-KipBhBtEiwAWjgwrBesczeLIcd-JJO7ySOaF8a2tIaq6SOyD5cNH4v23eTPOVG1h2aTXxoCA1oQAvD_BwE
• Direct Veterans Support Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Join us for our special Halloween edition where we dive into the scariest trends we've uncovered in the mental health system. From interrupted treatment in prisons to insurance companies dictating care, we expose the dark realities plaguing those in need. But beware, as we leave you hanging with no solutions in sight, you'll be left wondering how these alarming issues can ever be resolved.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the alarming trends in mental health that you need to know about.
• Explore the impact of interrupted treatment in prisons on mental health outcomes.
• Learn how insurance companies are influencing and determining mental health care.
• Uncover the reasons behind the increasing rates of suicide and how we can address them.
• Understand the challenges caused by the shortage of mental health professionals and explore potential solutions.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction

 00:01:44 - Halloween Traditions

 00:04:06 - Scary Trend: Stopping Treatment in Prison

 00:05:23 - Scary Trend: Insurance Dictating Treatment

 00:06:13 - Scary Trend: Increasing Suicide Rates

 00:13:43 - Scary Stories in the Behavioral Health System

 00:17:36 - The Injustice of Using the Justice System

 00:18:41 - Injustice During the Pandemic

 00:19:08 - Weight Gain During the Holidays

Links:

https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf

Connect with us:
https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Discover the crisis stabilization services in the community that are transforming the way individuals receive help. Join Renee Schulte and Jason Haglund as they discuss the unique benefits of community-based crisis stabilization and how it can provide tailored support for you or your loved ones.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how crisis stabilization services in your community can provide essential support during difficult times.
• Learn about the benefits of community-based crisis stabilization and how it can help you or your loved ones find stability and support close to home.
• Understand the important role that community treatment teams play in providing comprehensive care and support to individuals and families in crisis.
• Explore the significance of including pharmacists as part of the treatment team and their expertise in medication management for improved mental health outcomes.
• Gain insights into the mental health trends during Halloween and how to navigate them to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction

 00:01:45 - Focus on Community Stabilization

 00:04:02 - Who Would Benefit from Community Stabilization

 00:06:09 - Historical Context

 00:08:33 - What Community Stabilization Should Look Like

 00:14:07 - Community Treatment Teams and Crisis Community Response

 00:16:11 - The Role of Pharmacists in Behavioral Health

 00:19:25 - The Expertise of Pharmacists in Medications

 00:20:45 - Candidates for In-Home Crisis Wraparound and Residential Treatment

 00:27:36 - Crisis Stabilization Services in the Community

 00:27:56 - Spooky Trends in Mental Health

 00:28:15 - Conclusion and Contact Information

 00:28:42 - Creating an Effective Behavioral Health System 

Links:

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/441.24.pdf 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9118182/

https://www.wilder.org/sites/default/files/imports/MHCA_ResultsSummary_5-13.pdf

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/resources/roadmap-to-the-ideal-crisis-system/

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

In the world of behavioral health, accessing crisis services can be a challenge. Join us as we explore the obstacles individuals face when seeking help, the importance of collaboration, and the shocking reality of limited resources. Get ready for a suspenseful journey that will leave you questioning how we can bridge the gap in crisis response.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn about the barriers that individuals face when trying to access crisis services and gain insight into strategies for overcoming these challenges.
• Understand the importance of collaboration between behavioral health professionals and law enforcement to provide effective crisis response and explore ways to strengthen these partnerships.
• Discover strategies for improving access to crisis services and optimizing resource allocation.
• Expand Crisis Response Workforce: Learn about innovative approaches to addressing the shortage of crisis response professionals and find out how to expand the workforce to meet the increasing demand for crisis services.
• Leverage Resources in Rural Areas: Explore creative solutions for overcoming the unique challenges faced in rural areas, such as limited access to crisis services, and discover strategies for leveraging existing resources to improve crisis response in these communities.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:13:19 - The need for collaboration in the behavioral health system 

00:14:08 - Different models of crisis response 

00:17:39 - The importance of connecting with volunteer entities in rural areas 

00:19:19 - Mixed messages on access to crisis response 

00:21:50 - The importance of integrating clinical best practices, capacity, accountability, and finances 

00:26:33 - Working Together for a Better Behavioral Health System 

00:26:50 - Conclusion and Thanks

Links:

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/441.24.pdf 

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988 

https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/project-examples/1119?utm_source=rhihub_alert&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=weekly092523 

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/resources/roadmap-to-the-ideal-crisis-system/ 

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/

https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Does this sound familiar? As mental health professionals and policymakers, you may have been told that simply increasing the number of behavioral health services available will solve the disparities faced by marginalized populations. However, you know all too well the pain and frustration of witnessing these communities continue to struggle to access the care they desperately need, despite these efforts. It's time to explore new strategies and approaches that address the root causes of these disparities and create meaningful change for those who have been left behind.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Gain insights into the disparities faced by marginalized populations in accessing behavioral health services, fostering a deeper understanding of the urgent need for change.
• Discover the challenges surrounding limited availability of services in rural and remote areas, uncovering innovative solutions that can bridge the gap and improve access for all.
• Learn strategies to enhance cultural understanding and responsiveness in providing effective care, leading to more inclusive and equitable mental health services for diverse communities.
• Explore the latest data on disparities in mental health care among racial and ethnic groups, empowering you to advocate for evidence-based policies and programs that address these inequities.
• Challenge stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding Native American populations and alcohol consumption, promoting a more nuanced and compassionate approach to supporting mental well-being within these communities.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction, 
00:02:53 - Challenges in Accessing Behavioral Health Services, 
00:06:06 - Importance of Cultural Understanding, 
00:07:39 - Disparities in Foster Care, 
00:09:19 - Personal Experiences and Language Skills, 
00:14:08 - Challenges in Native American communities, 
00:15:32 - Improving the system, 
00:18:32 - Innovative solutions, 
00:20:28 - Challenges in recruiting healthcare professionals, 
00:21:57 - Personal experience and specialization, 
00:28:11 - Importance of User Representation in System Building, 
00:29:27 - Concerns about Board and Commission Reorganization, 
00:30:19 - Balancing Consolidation and Representation in Health Care, 
00:31:22 - Self-Care in Colder Weather, 
00:33:26 - Supporting the Unrepresented and Privileged, 

Links:

Mental health awareness training: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10102824/
Mental Health EAPs - article overview

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Are you aware of the valuable benefits your employer provides? Discover the secret resources that could be helping you with therapy, counseling, and even financial support. But what happens when the very program meant to assist you suddenly disappears? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the importance of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in creating a supportive and mentally healthy workplace.
• Learn how to address the underutilization of EAPs and break the stigma surrounding mental health in your organization.
• Understand the benefits and services offered by EAPs and how they can support employees in various aspects of their lives.
• Explore the value of EAP training programs in equipping employees with the skills to address and manage mental health issues effectively.
• Gain insights into creating emotionally healthy work environments through the implementation and utilization of EAPs.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction, 
00:02:15 - What is an Employee Assistance Program?, 
00:05:04 - EAP Training and Mental Health First Aid, 
00:06:35 - Benefits of EAPs and Underutilization, 
00:09:43 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways, 
00:13:10 - Underutilization of Employee Assistance Programs, 
00:14:55 - Evaluating the Value of EAP Programs, 
00:15:21 - The Importance of Utilizing EAP Benefits, 
00:16:54 - Personal Experience with EAPs, 
00:27:02 - Exploring Options for Counseling, 
00:28:04 - Benefits of EAPs, 
00:28:44 - Taking Action, 
00:29:07 - Wrapping Up, 

Links:

Mental health awareness training: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10102824/
Mental Health EAPs - article overview

Connect with us: 

https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Join us as we dive into the world of healthcare innovation and rethinking the system. Discover the surprising self-care practices and the groundbreaking projects that challenge the status quo. But what happens when traditional approaches fail? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the pivotal role of innovation and rethinking in transforming healthcare delivery.
• Gain insights into the constitution of an effective crisis system in the realm of behavioral health.
• Understand how increased accessibility can drastically improve healthcare outcomes.
• Learn about the rewards and hurdles associated with implementing virtual access centers in rural locales.
• Appreciate the demand for creativity and adaptability in enhancing the mental health system.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction, 
00:02:28 - What a System Should Look Like, 
00:04:24 - Physical Access Centers, 
00:07:11 - Virtual Access Centers, 
00:10:21 - Balancing Standardization and Individual Community Needs, 
00:13:40 - Innovating in Organizational Structure and Delivery of Care, 
00:15:43 - Building Partnerships and Collaboration, 
00:16:41 - The Importance of Thinking Differently, 
00:18:40 - The Benefits of a Virtual Access Center, 
00:26:41 - Finding Self-Care in Farming, 
00:27:53 - Innovations in Healthcare, 
00:28:32 - Focusing on the Positive, 
00:28:56 - Closing Remarks, 


Links:

https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/explainer/2022/sep/behavioral-health-care-us-how-it-works-where-it-falls-short 

10x is Easier than 2x Book


Connect with us: 

• https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Does this sound familiar? Have you been told that all you need to do is reach out and ask for help? Yet, despite your efforts, you find yourself stuck in a convoluted maze of behavioral health systems, facing vexing hurdles at every turn. The pain of seeking assistance and not receiving the coordinated and streamlined mental health services you desperately need is overwhelming. It's time to explore a different approach, one that tackles the bottlenecks in the system and offers real solutions to improve access and coordination.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Navigate the convoluted maze of behavioral health systems.
• Understand the urgency of a streamlined mental health infrastructure.
• Expose the scarcity of mental health assistance in underprivileged rural settings.
• Realize the universal demand for effective mental health intervention.
• Break the harmful cycle of stereotypes associated with mental health issues. 

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction, 
00:02:27 - Pillars of a Functional System, 
00:05:25 - Rural Emergency Hospitals, 
00:08:30 - Data on Mental Health, 
00:11:20 - Global Perspective, 
00:13:42 - The Problems with Outpatient Appointments for Crisis, 
00:15:39 - The Issues with Walk-In Hours, 
00:18:10 - Lack of Scheduling and Transparent Communication, 
00:20:13 - Evaluation without Treatment, 
00:22:41 - Triaging and Utilizing Lived Experience, 
00:26:50 - Self Care Tip: Reach Out for Help, 
00:28:09 - Finding Assistance in Rural Communities, 
00:29:28 - Start Close to Home, 
00:30:26 - Implementing the No Wrong Door Approach, 
00:31:40 - Call to Action, 

Links to Data:

WHO World Mental Health Today: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240049338


Connect with us: 

• https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners

Join hosts Renee Schulte and Jason Haglund as they dive into the world of National Recovery Month and the often overlooked issue of farm stress. From conversations about addiction disorders and mental health to shocking statistics on substance use, this episode leaves listeners wondering: How can we better support those in recovery? And what can we do to combat the rising rates of farm stress? Tune in to find out...

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Honor the journey of those triumphing over substance addictions and their inspiring recovery stories.
• Get insights into addressing and preventing farmer stress and suicide, a silent epidemic spreading in our agricultural communities.
• Discover ways to connect people, afflicted with addiction and mental health concerns, to treatment and resources that foster recovery.
• Unravel the suppressive stigma lingering over addiction and mental health challenges and how it impedes the path to recovery.
• Look into how substance use can severely impede one's sleep cycle and overall well-being, a lesser-known side effect demanding attention.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction, 
00:00:53 - National Recovery Month, 
00:03:39 - Farm Stress, 
00:08:23 - Statistics on Substance Use, 
00:11:20 - Language and Approach, 
00:12:54 - Connecting People to Treatment Options and Support, 
00:14:10 - Breaking Down Stigma and Encouraging Support, 
00:15:20 - Substance Use and Pain in Physically Demanding Jobs, 
00:17:07 - Post-Pandemic Trends in Mental Health and Substance Use, 
00:26:23 - The Dangers of Working Fatigued, 
00:27:05 - Importance of Conversations and Support, 
00:27:41 - Substance Use and Sleep, 
00:28:21 - Future Podcast Plans, 
00:28:53 - Conclusion and Call to Action, 

Connect with us:

• https://ruralpolicypartners.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/company/rural-policy-partners/
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/ruralpolicypartners