Well Montana: Mental Wellness for All
For a long time, we have heard (and often found ourselves saying) that “it’s okay to not be okay.”
While we 100% agree with this statement, one thing we’ve learned throughout the years is that even though it’s perfectly normal (and oh-so-very-human) to not be “okay” - something that we’re not often taught is what to do when we’re not doing so well. In response, Sweetgrass Psychological Services founder and chief psychologist, Dr. Sara Boilen came up with the idea of Well Montana.
Well Montana is a Flathead Valley-based non-profit addressing the mental wellness needs of Montanans before they become mental health issues. It is an organization built FOR Montanans, BY Montanans.
What WELL MONTANA does: In workshops that range between 1 and 2 hours, the Well Montana team facilitates conversations to help teams and groups of people increase their self-awareness, learn coping skills for life, build and strengthen community engagement, and foster resiliency in themselves and those with whom they are connected.
What folks can expect from a WELL MONTANA presentation: People will gain the knowledge and skills they need to take better care of themselves, their colleagues, and their loved ones. By learning these basic skills rarely taught in school, people will be better equipped to manage all that life throws at them.
Why schedule a WELL MONTANA workshop for your team: People who struggle coping with the stresses of daily life are less happy, less creative, and less productive. Our team of presenters are knowledgeable, engaging, and fun. Together we can build a better, stronger, more well Montana, starting with your business or group.
To date, the Well Montana team has presented to over 100 individuals across 9 organizations, including the Whitefish School District, Montana Conservation Corps, and Whitefish Mountain Resort. After participating in one of our workshops, the fine folks at Fleur Bake Shop hosted a fundraiser for Well Montana that raised over $500 to help us continue to take our show on the road by purchasing our own projector and screen.
And the best part? We’re making a difference. Over 85% percent of workshop participants report that they leave with a better understanding of what mental wellness is, and 94% leave with actionable steps to improve their mental wellness. And because the ripple effect is real, over 85% of those surveyed also feel better prepared to initiate conversations about mental wellness with their friends, peers, and families.
Here’s what folks are saying about the work Well Montana is doing:
“We feel incredibly fortunate that Well Montana has come into being, and offers just exactly the kind of training, perspective and links to resources that we’ve been seeking for our participants. Gaelen Engler and Kate Berry ran an impactful session with our Crew Leaders in Training early this Spring with immediate positive results, and we’re currently exploring options to bring Well Montana back in to speak with our crew members at the outset of their field season.” - CLIFFORD KIPP • MCC NORTHERN ROCKIES
“I knew the information Sara and Gaelen shared would be important for all of us to hear, as we learned straight forward stress coping skills that can be introduced into our daily lives. There was nothing but positive feedback from staff, as we all learned new tricks to assist in our mental health.” - WHITNEY BRIEN • FLEUR BAKE SHOP
“I appreciated anecdotes from the professionals that they also struggle and have their own tips and tricks for themselves.” - ANONYMOUS
“What was most memorable was learning other mechanisms to deal with stress. I look forward to trying new methods to decompress and get back in a good spot.” - ANONYMOUS
“Simplicity of the workshop, wasn't overwhelming.” - ANONYMOUS
Want to learn more or schedule a workshop for your team or organization? Visit wellmontana.org