Fanteema Barnes, LCSW, and Ashley Phykitt, LCSW-A, emphasize the importance of Behavioral Health Week: “It highlights the work that we do but it also gives us an opportunity to share valuable resources and tips for stress management and self-care to staff and patients,” Barnes shared. “It encourages people to talk openly about mental health and reminds us how crucial it is to support one another. It helps raise awareness, share valuable information about treatment options, and motivate people to take those first steps toward getting help. It’s also a great opportunity for communities to come together, break the stigma, and have honest conversations about mental health and the importance of care,” Phykitt continued.
Starting Therapy? Here’s the One Thing Our Experts Want You to Know
Starting therapy for the first time can feel overwhelming, but our team offers encouraging words for anyone beginning this journey. “Don’t put pressure on yourself or the therapist to solve your problems right away. In most cases, you have been dealing with your issues for years. It will take some time to develop new healthy habits. Trust the process and give yourself credit for small accomplishments,” said Barnes. Phykitt shares that it may be scary at first, but consistency is the key to healing. “Be openminded. You never know how it might impact your life, what you may discover about yourself, or how much growth it can bring. Starting therapy can feel scary, but sticking with it and being consistent is often when real progress begins. Over time, many people find that it becomes a powerful and positive influence in their lives.”
Common Misconceptions about therapy
Many people think therapy is only for those in crisis but that’s a huge misconception. “You don’t have to wait for a crisis,” Barnes said. “You can also use therapy for things other than managing emotions, like getting help with decision making, positive life changes like getting married, changing jobs, going to school, or moving”. Ashley added that therapy is also a great space for self-reflection and personal growth. “It’s not just for when you’re struggling,” she said. “A therapist’s role is to support and guide you while empowering you to be the driver of your own change.” Taking care of your mental well-being doesn’t require drastic changes, sometimes it’s the little things that have the biggest impact. Whether it’s checking in with your emotions, talking to someone you trust, or making time for self-care, small actions can lead to lasting improvements in your behavioral health. “It will take some time to develop new healthy habits. Trust the process and give yourself credit for small accomplishments,” said Barnes.
Accessibility for Behavioral Health at Advance
Advance Community Health makes behavioral health care accessible for every patient by using an integrated care approach. “Advance is not just a medical office,” said Barnes. “Our behavioral health team is located within the clinic, allowing us to meet with patients in real time, often on the same day, to address mental health concerns,” said Phykitt. “They can talk to their primary care provider, OB/GYN, or whatever provider they see when they come to establish care and say that they would like to learn about Behavioral Health services,” said Barnes.
Upcoming Events:
At Advance Community Health, we’re committed to supporting mental wellness especially during Behavioral Health Awareness Week, which is held Monday, May 6, 2025, through Friday, May 9, 2025. We’ve organized a series of events designed to educate, uplift, and connect. We invite you to take part in the following:
- Meet and Greet + Grounding Bags
Connect with our Behavioral Health team on Monday, May 5th, at the Southeast Raleigh site as we explore the services provided and take home a grounding bag filled with calming tools to help you stay present and manage stress.
- Art & Affirmations
Come to the Raleigh Girls Club on Tuesday, May 6th, as we host a workshop all about helping young girls be present in the moment while expressing themselves creatively. Our focus is mindfulness and self-expression with creativity.
- Gratitude Wall
On Wednesday, May 7th, come and participate in our Gratitude Wall, a space dedicated to reflecting on and sharing what we’re thankful for. Write, draw, or post what you’re grateful for and help us create a positive, uplifting space together. Every bit of gratitude counts!
- Staff Yoga
Advance is hosting a rejuvenating staff yoga session on Thursday, May 8th, focused on mindfulness, movement, and stress relief. Led by Donnae Ward, Health Equity Coordinator, this wellness event will give our team members a chance to pause, breathe, and reset.
- Behavioral Health Appreciation Day
On Friday, May 9th, we will be ending the week by recognizing the dedication of our Behavioral Health team, whose compassion, expertise, and support make a difference in the lives of our patients every single day.
These events are meant to create a supportive environment, raise awareness about behavioral health, and empower our community to prioritize mental and emotional well-being. This Behavioral Health Week, Advance Community Health invites you to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being and take meaningful steps toward a healthier, more balanced life. Remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health! For more information about Advance Community Health, visit advancechc.org.
