Date

5-2024

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 - Concentration: Social Work

First Advisor

Barabara Silverthorne

Abstract

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Monterey County provides advocacy, educational programs, and support for adults and their loved ones whose lives have been affected by mental health. The project aims to enhance knowledge and promote help-seeking behavior among Salinas youth through a presentation targeting middle and high school students. Implementation involved curriculum development, logistics, and pre-post surveys. Evaluation results indicated a lack of awareness about mental illness and accessing mental health services among students, demonstrating the effectiveness of NAMI’s Ending the Silence (ETS) presentation. Contributing factors such as socioeconomic disparities, stigma, and transportation barriers exacerbate the problem of inadequate access to youth mental health services in Monterey County, leading to consequences such as increased suicide risk, substance abuse, and potential homelessness.

The agency recommends expanding NAMI On Campus High School (NCHS) Clubs, training student leaders, adding mental health education to school conversations, hosting community events, advocating for resources, and supporting student mental wellness. They also stress the importance of creating safe spaces for students to talk about mental health and partnering with local organizations for more support.

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Available for download on Monday, May 17, 5024

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