On October 1, 2023, the Multifamily Housing programs, HCV and PBV programs, and the CPD programs will transition from REAC to NSPIRE. Visit the Navigate NSPIRE Page to learn more.
Mental health was the topic of our last LIVE Tuesday Tip of 2021! Licensed psychologist Dr. Eliza Belle talked to us about stress, the holiday blues, and depression. The pandemic has also taken a toll as we enter another holiday season admits COVID-19.
When we discuss mental health in the housing industry, we are often looking for answers for dealing with residents who may have mental health issues. While Dr. Belle addresses how to approach your residents, she begins by discussing how we can check in on ourselves as industry professionals.
Approaching mental health with residents
Dr. Belle offered some prompts (at 35:00) when you recognize mental health changes in residents, family, and friends. You can say:
“I’ve been worried about you. How are you–really?”
“I’ve noticed some changes in you lately, and I wanted to check in with you.”
“It sounds like you’re having a tough time. It must be really hard to try and hold everything together when you’re feeling this bad.”
“When did you start feeling like this? Did something happen that started it?”
“I understand. How can I help you to find help?”
“Feeling (insert emotion here) isn’t a sign of weakness. It takes courage to speak up.”
Mental Health resources
She also provided a list of mental health resources.
In 2020, Navigate produced a series of holiday videos, including the following. This video shares tips from two managers about keeping residents’ spirits up during the holiday season.
The Crucial Role of PBCA Contact Information Posters
One key element that bridges the gap between residents and housing authorities is the Performance-Based Contract Administrator (PBCA). You can make residents aware of this with the PBCA contact information poster for your respective PBCA.
