Mental illness affects millions of Americans, impacting their daily activities and their ability to connect with others. Mental health conditions are very common but not always discussed due to the stigma associated with them.
When tragedy struck close to home for a team member at Aurora Medical Center – Bay Area, the Laboratory Services Team decided to take action to support their friend and make a difference in their community. Team members organized a hospital-wide silent auction to benefit the Aurora Medical Center – Bay Area Mental Health Fund, which supports materials, programs, services, and equipment related to improving the behavioral and mental health of patients and the community.
“I heard from a lot of people that they wanted to help because it spoke to their heart and hit home for them as well,” shared Kara Brown, Supervisor of Laboratory Services. “Many of us in the lab, and throughout the hospital, have been personally affected by mental illness – whether it is our own struggle or the struggle of a loved one. This issue deeply affects so many.”
During the monthlong auction, patients and team members alike expressed their gratitude for bringing awareness to mental health.
“Some people felt compelled to share their own stories, while others were grateful for the opportunity to come together as a team for a great cause.”
The team’s goal was to raise $1,000. Instead, the auction brought in nearly $5,000.
“When I was adding up the totals, my knees almost went weak because I was so overwhelmed with the overflowing of generosity,” said Kara. “We as a team are deeply touched by everyone’s generosity and by all the stories of how this has impacted so many personally.”
How you can help
According to the CDC, mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States.
- More than 50% will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime.
- 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in a given year.
- 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness.
- 1 in 25 Americans lives with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression.
Mental health services are an integral part of helping people live well, and philanthropy plays a critical role. You can support mental health services at a hospital in your community by making a gift today.