Eskenazi Health celebrates mental health with platinum certification and community engagement efforts

Innovative mental health initiatives and community engagement took center stage at the recent Health & Hospital Corporation Board meeting in Indianapolis. The board celebrated the achievement of the 2025 Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health Certification, awarded at the platinum level, the highest recognition given by Mental Health America. This certification underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering a supportive work environment that prioritizes employee mental health and wellness.

Dr. Harris highlighted the importance of this recognition during Mental Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the board's dedication to innovative and compassionate care. The organization is gearing up for its next Career Pathways program, aimed at promoting professional growth among employees. This program, which opens for applications on June 9, offers mentorship and resources to help staff advance their careers within Eskenazi Health.

In a significant update, the board also marked the one-year anniversary of the Caring Recovery Opioid Treatment Program, which relocated to a new facility in the Twin Air neighborhood. This program has provided over 176,000 visits to nearly 900 clients since its opening. Dr. Overlay shared the challenges faced during the relocation, including initial community resistance, and the efforts made to build trust and engage with local residents. The program has now been embraced by the community, with recognition from local organizations for its positive impact.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued community involvement and support, reinforcing the board's commitment to improving mental health services and fostering a collaborative relationship with the neighborhoods they serve. As the organization moves forward, it aims to further enhance its programs and outreach efforts, ensuring that mental health remains a priority in the community.