Did you know that your mental health is affected by your physical health and vice versa? In a groundbreaking collaboration, Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center (SEKMHC) and Ashley Clinic have merged their expertise to offer a unique healthcare approach that focuses on mental and physical well-being. This partnership marks a significant step toward addressing the holistic needs of individuals and recognizing the deep interconnection between mental health and physical health.
Traditionally, mental health and physical health have been treated as separate entities, often resulting in fragmented care and overlooked aspects of a person’s health. However, research has shown that the mind and body are intricately linked, and addressing one without the other can lead to incomplete treatment and poorer health outcomes. According to the World Health Organization, “There is no health without mental health. Mental health is an integral part of health; indeed, there is no health without mental health. Mental health is determined by a range of socioeconomic, biological, and environmental factors. Stigma and discrimination against patients and families prevent people from seeking mental health care.” – World Health Organization
The collaboration between SEKMHC and Ashley Clinic signifies a shift towards a more holistic approach to healthcare, one that considers the individual as a whole person with interconnected mental and physical health needs. By integrating mental health services into primary care settings, the partnership aims to provide comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of health.
One of the key strengths of this partnership is its specialization in both mental health and physical health. SEKMHC brings expertise in mental health counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care, while Ashley Clinic offers a range of primary care services, including preventive care, specialty care, chronic disease management, and acute care.
Patients stand to benefit significantly from this collaboration. By receiving integrated care from both mental health professionals and primary care providers, individuals can expect more coordinated and effective treatment plans. This approach also reduces the stigma associated with mental health care by normalizing the inclusion of mental health services in routine healthcare.
The partnership between SEKMHC and Ashley Clinic has the potential to have a profound impact on the community. By promoting whole-person care and addressing the mental health needs of individuals, the collaboration aims to improve overall health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the quality of life for residents of Southeast Kansas.
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between SEKMHC and Ashley Clinic serve as a model for delivering comprehensive, integrated care. By recognizing the importance of addressing mental health alongside physical health, these organizations are paving the way for a new era of healthcare that prioritizes the well-being of the whole person.
During the month of May we are raising awareness within our communities and want you to know- You are not alone, Mental Health Matters! Learn more about our services and locations at www.sekmhc.org
Holly Jerome
Director of Human Resources and Marketing
Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center & Ashley Clinic