As we embark on our Throwback Thursday journey for Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we are thrilled to kick off with a look back at a significant milestone in our organization’s history.

Mental Health Connecticut (MHC) proudly reflects on its achievement of a Platinum level rating, the highest offered, in Mental Health America’s Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health, every year since the program’s inception in 2021. The Bell Seal stands as a pioneering certification in workplace mental health, recognizing organizations committed to cultivating mentally healthy environments for their employees.

Mental Health America (MHA), founded by Clifford Beers in 1909, one year after the establishment of Mental Health Connecticut, remains the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the overall mental health of all. With decades of research in workplace mental health, MHA introduced the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health in 2019 to honor companies and organizations prioritizing mental health in their workplaces through policies and practices supporting employee well-being.

Its name comes from a symbolization of change, Mental Health America commissioned the casting of the Mental Health Bell from chains and shackles that restrained people with mental illnesses in decades past.

“We at Mental Health Connecticut are proud to be recognized with platinum level certification for the Bell Seal, marking our dedication to workplace mental health since the program’s inception. This achievement underscores our ongoing commitment to prioritize the well-being of our staff, reaffirming our status as a Platinum level Bell Seal-certified organization.” Luis B. Pérez, President & CEO of Mental Health Connecticut.

The Bell Seal recognizes employers’ strides in workplace mental health through recognition levels of Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Mental Health Connecticut underwent a meticulous evaluation of its policies and practices in Workplace Culture, Benefits, Wellness Programs, Legal Compliance, and Leadership and Community Engagement. MHC’s Platinum status underscores its dedication to employee well-being, particularly excelling in Workplace Culture, Wellness Programs, and Leadership and Community Engagement.

“We are thrilled to award Mental Health Connecticut with the prestigious rating of Platinum for the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health. This recognition reflects their unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive and mentally healthy workplace environment. Mental Health Connecticut’s commitment to employee well-being serves as an exemplary model for organizations across the nation.” – Schroeder Stribling, President and CEO of Mental Health America

In 2020, MHC intensified efforts to support Connecticut workplaces through the MHC Collaborative. Amid the disruptions from the pandemic, businesses sought MHC’s assistance in supporting employees grappling with mental health challenges such as social isolation, loss experiences, lack of emotional safety, and heightened stress and anxiety.

Mental Health Connecticut continues its support for Connecticut’s workplaces through ongoing offerings. Additionally, the MHC Collaborative now extends to guiding organizations through the Bell Seal application process, empowering workplaces to implement improvements strategically.

“When the pandemic hit in 2020, we (like many across the globe) took a long look at what’s important, what’s needed to get through this difficult time, and how we could make a difference. We saw the need for workplace mental health support and inspired by the Bell Seal, created a program called the MHC Collaborative that supports employers and individuals seeking to improve their workplace culture. The need for safe, inclusive, and mentally healthy environments remains a priority and MHC is committed to help partner with those ready to do the work.” Jacquilyn Davis, Director of Workplace Mental Health & DEI.

Mental Health Connecticut remains steadfast in its commitment to employee well-being and looks forward to continued efforts to uphold the standards set forth by the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health. Learn more about Mental Health America and the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health at www.mhanational.org/bestemployers.

History provides us with valuable insights into the progress we’ve made and the challenges we’ve overcome. By understanding our past, we gain a deeper appreciation for the journey that has led us to where we are today. Our achievement in the MHA Bell Seal is not just a milestone in our history; it’s a testament to our ongoing commitment to improving mental health in our communities.

Stay tuned for more Throwback Thursday posts as we delve deeper into the rich history of mental health in Connecticut throughout May.