Swope Health Presents at 2021 Mental Health KC Conference

Swope Health’s Terri Cooley-Bennett will deliver a presentation on “Trauma and Suicide” at the 2021 Mental Health Kansas City Virtual Conference on May 6-7.

Suicide rates have increased rapidly in Missouri, as well as nationwide. This workshop examines the link between trauma and suicide. There is significant evidence that traumas in childhood (Adverse Childhood Experiences) increase the likelihood of issues later – such as clinical depression, substance-use disorders, chronic health conditions and suicide. The workshop will explore best practices and treatments and will include resources on self-care to address vicarious trauma.

The conference is sponsored by the Metro Council of Community Behavioral Health Centers. This event marks the sixth year of the conference, which is expected to draw hundreds of professionals including local business leaders, educators, first responders, government leaders, mental health professionals, healthcare workers and members of the community.

The event is held to coincide with Mental Health Awareness month in May. The goal of the awareness campaign is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and elevate mental health dialogues in the workplace.

Cooley-Bennett is the Outreach Services manager for Swope Health. She is a licensed clinical social worker, licensed specialist clinical social worker, a certified co-occurring disorders professional-diplomate, and a tobacco treatment specialist.

She is experienced as a presenter, workshop leader, and educator and served as an Adjunct Professor for the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare. Cooley-Bennett speaks and serves on the board of the Missouri Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers.

The Metro Council of Community Behavioral Health Centers is a collaboration of nine community behavioral health centers serving Metropolitan Kansas City. Keynote speakers will talk on Trauma and Social Justice/Racial Equality.  There is a $50 fee for the conference. Register here.

“Tools 2 Thrive” Resources
from Mental Health America

While 1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, everyone faces challenges in life that can impact their mental health. The Tools 2 Thrive series provides information, tips, and practical tools that everyone can use to improve their mental health and increase resiliency.

• Connecting with Others
• Creating Healthy Routines
• Eliminating Toxic Influences
• Finding the Positive After Loss
• Owning Your Feelings
• Supporting Others