What is Rolling Hope?
Status: Currently Seeking Funding
Mental health is an important aspect of our overall health. Unfortunately, there are many different barriers to mental healthcare; some of which vary by community. Through our experience, and research, we have discovered that there are unique difficulties facing Seniors and access to mental health resources.
Among these, is stigma. Over the last 50 years, mental health has evolved significantly; however, mental health was once more a threat than compassionate care. In addition, many of those in Stone and Taney County live in excess of an hour from accessible resources for mental health.
We lay out, below, how we hope to make an impact in the lives of Seniors throughout Stone and Taney County.
How does it work?
4 Ozark Seniors will purchase an enclosed box trailer and convert it into a living room style space.
It will be designed to be a comfortable space: windows, A/C, Heat, armchairs, etc.
The purpose will be to allow people to feel comfortable, making it easier for them to relax their mind and body.
The trailer will be moved between locations by pre-screened volunteers.
We will work with our mental healthcare partners to compile a packet of useful information and resources that we can send home with every person who visits the Rolling Hope.
Step 1
Location, Location, Location
The Rolling Hope will be brought to Mental Health "deserts", areas with little-to-no mental health resources. For example, a community center in Shell Knob or Galena; these locations will be set, a minimum, of a month in advance. This will allow the word to be spread throughout the community.
Step 2
Low Pressure,
Break the Stigma
A qualified professional will be present and available for a set number of hours. Each person present will be allotted a max of 30 minutes. The purpose will be to discuss mental health and Seniors' needs. This will include question based screenings regarding: safety, overall mental health, and suicide risk.
Step 3
What's the goal?
If formal therapy is right for our Senior Friend, they will be able to receive direct referrals to providers; including providers that handle telehealth counseling, for those unable to make the trip to a physical clinic.
For those whom therapy is unwanted or unneeded, we hope to successfully break any stigmas, or answer any questions, they may have about mental health resources. As well as encourage them to speak to their peers about the positive benefits of mental healthcare.
With your help, we can help break through the barriers and stigmas that our Senior Friends face regarding mental healthcare.
Together, we can put the "Gold" back in Seniors' "Golden Years".