The John Henry Mason Foundation is an organization focused on mental healthcare delivery in the San Juan Islands. We are a new, local, grassroots, organization working to raise awareness and lower stigma regarding mental health. An ongoing needs assessment on three islands revealed the need for three areas of concentration. Therefore, initially the foundation will work to improve the following in our communities: Access, Coordination, and Education.
Access: Improving access to mental healthcare is a central tenant of the organization. We plan to centralize access to services so that there is a clear mental health delivery system in the islands. We will focus on preventative action to get people connected to services earlier. Adolescent mental health care is our current priority.
Coordination-Connection: An Annual Mental Healthcare Symposium (presented in cooperation with the San Juan County Health and Human Services Department) is planned for all island professionals who wish to participate. A coordinated effort will be made to connect providers and provide a space for continued dialog about Mental Health. Continuing education will be offered to local providers.
Education: Our goal is to provide education to professionals that work with youth and to the greater community regarding mental health.
- Mental Health First Aid: MH First Aid Training will be offered locally for youth and adults as needed.
- Professionals: Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will made available within the county for all mental health professionals. Professionals will be consulted on the topic and scope of the training.
- Teachers, parents and students will all have access to education regarding a variety of mental health topics with the hope that everyone will know where to turn to receive appropriate care. The goal of this service is to reduce stigma and normalize the fact that many people need to access help.
- Topics will include but are not limited to: depression and anxiety, mental health first aid, eating disorders, trauma, suicide awareness and prevention