Ruby Brown-Herring

Mental health challenges affect many employees — a fact that is usually overlooked because these disorders tend to be hidden at work. Research shows that, among Americans ages 15 to 54, 18% of those who were employed said they experienced symptoms of a mental health disorder in the previous month. The stigma attached to having a mental health disorder is such that employees may be reluctant to seek treatment for fear that they might jeopardize their jobs. At the same time, managers may want to help but are not sure how to do so. The pandemic has caused even greater stress on employees, and they will be affected well beyond the initial crisis. Mindful self-care enhances your physical, mental, and emotional health. Work extends far beyond the workplace and often leads to compassion fatigue, burnout, and indifference. This session will provide you with a self-care plan and other tips that can help you maintain optimal functioning in all aspects of your life.

Bert had Ernie. Timon had Pumbaa. Meredith had Christina. But have you ever found yourself struggling to identify your “person”? Social and community connections are critical to helping us identify our purpose and developing support systems that help us navigate the challenges in life. This session will provide you with an opportunity to explore your purpose and learn tips on developing relationships that support your social and community well-being.

Mindful self-care enhances your physical, mental, and emotional health. An educator’s work extends far beyond the educational setting and often leads to compassion fatigue, burnout and indifference. This session will provide you with a self-care plan and other tips that can help you maintain optimal functioning in all aspects of your life.