Date

12-2023

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Major

Collaborative Health and Human Services

First Advisor

Esmeralda Maldonado

Second Advisor

Teresa Nieves Espinoza

Abstract

The Conquering and Combating Isolation initiative, implemented by an OMNI Resource Center intern, addressed severe isolation issues among individuals with mental health disabilities in Salinas, California. The macro-level problem encompassed the adverse effects of isolation on mental health and well-being. At the micro-level, the agency-specific issue was the heightened risk of unhealthy habits, depression and anxiety, and suicidal ideation among OMNI clients due to loneliness caused by homelessness, stigma, and a lack of social skills. The project entailed facilitating weekly peer support group discussions to minimize impacts of isolation, aiming for increased knowledge and skill-building. Findings revealed positive outcomes as clients reported learning new strategies to combat isolation. Recommendations for the agency include attempting to reach more individuals about feelings of isolation, as well as continuous knowledge checks to ensure clients are grasping the tactics being shared.

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