In 2023, data from County Health Rankings & Roadmaps revealed a concerning statistic for Door County: a ratio of 710:1 mental health providers to population. This figure starkly contrasts with the statewide ratio in Wisconsin, which stands at 400:1, and the national ratio of 320:1.

Door County Medical Center (DCMC) joins community partners to address this critical gap in mental health services by introducing CredibleMind, a groundbreaking online platform designed to support mental health and well-being. Developed by UC Berkeley professor Dr. Deryk Van Brunt, CredibleMind offers an extensive array of expert-vetted resources, including articles, videos, podcasts, and apps, covering over 200 topics.

Shauna Blackledge, Door County Public Health Strategist, emphasizes the platform's importance, stating, "In an online landscape flooded with options, CredibleMind stands out as a trusted hub for expert-reviewed and endorsed resources. Even better, the platform is free and features local mental health information."

Whether you're seeking resources for stress management, coping strategies, or mental health education, CredibleMind provides a comprehensive toolkit to empower individuals of all ages.

The Benefits of CredibleMind

CredibleMind takes a holistic approach to mental health, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and self-care. According to Blackledge, CredibleMind data reports that regular exercise results in a reported 34% reduction in depression, which is as effective as antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. "If we encourage positive health behaviors for overall wellness, we are likely to see an improvement in mental health for our community," she adds.

With its user-friendly interface and evidence-based content, the platform offers tailored resources to address individual needs and preferences. From self-assessments to curated content libraries, CredibleMind empowers users to take control of their mental health journey.

Dr. Van Brunt revealed that their data uncovered an intriguing trend: 75% of individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being were not seeking traditional therapy or medication. In response, the platform he and his team crafted aims to foster self-care and elevate everyone on the continuum of well-being. CredibleMind's mission is clear: "To provide and empower all people with the opportunity to take charge of their mental health."

Getting Started with CredibleMind

Navigating the wealth of resources available on the platform offers an exciting opportunity for individuals ready to explore. For those new to the platform, starting with an assessment is recommended. The Mental Health Check-in takes about 3 minutes and can point users towards areas of interest and information based on their responses. Taking some time to get familiar with the site and creating a login helps users cultivate personalized content and allows them to track their assessment results. Additionally, a login will sign users up for a monthly email with helpful information on mental health topics.

For those without access to smart devices or the internet, local libraries serve as hubs for accessing the platform's resources. Blackledge highlights the accessibility of libraries, with eight branches throughout the County offering free computer usage. After creating a login, any assessment results and personalized content can be accessed again the next time a user logs on, providing continuity of care across devices.

"Mental health needs can happen at any hour of the day," says Blackledge. "We have 24/7 crisis lines, but sometimes we just need ideas on what to do and where to turn. CredibleMind can be a first step in sorting through options for mental health needs. Of course, when a crisis does arise, we encourage people to seek help. There is a "Need Help Now" section on CredibleMind that lists emergency hotlines and the direct Door County 24/7 crisis line is 920-746-2588."

A Collaborative Initiative for Mental Health

"Door County Health & Human Services and DCMC are the primary behavioral health providers in the county," explains Blackledge. "It was important to have DCMC as a partner in offering this platform to get this resource to their patient base and the community at large."

DCMC's partnership with Door County Public Health and active involvement in the Door County Mental Health Focus Group signify DCMC's dedication to enhancing mental health awareness and ensuring access to resources. The Door County Mental Health Focus Group serves as the steering committee for CredibleMind and is facilitated by Door County Director of Health & Human Services, Joe Krebsbach. Composed of mental health professionals, educators, and community leaders, the group endeavors to cultivate a culture of well-being in our community.

"Our grassroots efforts to promote CredibleMind include leveraging social media, distributing business cards, conducting presentations, and participating in community events," shares Blackledge. "We're also encouraging our front desk staff to introduce CredibleMind as a resource for individuals on waiting lists for services, those undergoing therapy, or individuals completing treatment programs." Members of the Mental Health Focus Group, representing organizations such as JAK's Place and HELP of Door County, advocate for the platform among their clients and contribute to community outreach efforts.

"Several schools have incorporated information about CredibleMind into their parent newsletters. We plan to intensify our efforts during back-to-school outreach. Additionally, we aim to disseminate this resource in assisted living centers and the county jail," adds Blackledge.

Join Us in Prioritizing Mental Health

In envisioning an ideal scenario for mental health awareness and services in the community, Blackledge emphasizes the importance of recognizing mental health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being: "I want everyone to understand that we all have mental health. Our mental health exists on a continuum and we should expect it to ebb and flow, but there are things we can do to improve our resiliency. If we want to be physically healthy, we understand we need to eat right and move our bodies. Our mental health also needs to be nurtured to be strong. There is not a finish line to physical or mental health; both are lifelong maintenance processes."

As we observe National Mental Health Month and beyond, let's reaffirm our commitment to mental health and well-being. Remember, mental health is a part of our everyday life, and CredibleMind is here to support you every step of the way.