University of Utah (U of U) Health recently received national recognition as a Wellbeing First Champion from the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, underscoring the culture of safety U of U has cultivated as well as the mental health resources that are both accessible and encouraged for employees.
U of U Health has shown a strong commitment to resisting the stigma attached to mental health care, ensuring employee access to mental health resources and services:
- At the individual level, the U of U Resiliency Center provides confidential therapy to healthcare employees.
- At the team level, U of U’s Code Lavender offers an on-site emotional support program by setting up a coordinated response for teams impacted by distressing events.
- At the organizational level, U of U continues to implement policies centered around mental well-being, including removing outdated, intrusive mental health questions from its credentialing applications.
At a time when healthcare workers across the country have an 18% higher risk of dying from suicide than the general population, healthcare workplaces must send the message that getting mental health support is not shameful – instead, it makes you stronger. U of U Health has been recognized as a leader in the movement to change how health systems support the mental health of providers and clinicians through its actions. By reviewing credentialing policies, speaking openly about mental health resources, and encouraging employees to seek support, U of U is carrying out the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation’s mission to improve the mental health of employees, thereby improving both patient and provider safety and well-being.
To learn more about U of U Health’s recognition as a Wellbeing First Champion, CLICK HERE.