ECD Chair’s May 2025 Message

Prioritize Mental Health, Support One Another

Dear PRSA ECD Colleagues,

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month this May, I want to extend a heartfelt reminder: your mental well-being matters deeply to us. Our leadership team is committed to offering programs and resources that support you in managing the unique pressures of our profession.

Mental health is as vital as physical health, yet one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year. The challenges that we face — tight deadlines, constant connectivity, and crisis management — can take a toll. Mental health crises manifest in many ways, from persistent sadness and anxiety to withdrawal or difficulty concentrating. These are not signs of weakness but signals that support is needed.

I’m inspired by my colleague Dr. Kary Oberbrunner, a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author, who, despite early struggles with depression and self-harm, found healing by seeking help and sharing his story in his book, “Your Secret Name.” Kary’s journey reminds me that vulnerability can be a source of strength and connection.

This month, let us focus on three pillars of positive mental health:

·         Positive Relationships: Nurture supportive connections with colleagues, friends, and family.

·         Emotional Resilience: Develop coping skills to manage setbacks and bounce back from challenges.

·         Sense of Purpose: Set meaningful goals and celebrate achievements, big or small.

Let’s honor Mental Health Awareness Month by caring for ourselves and each other, breaking the stigma, and fostering a culture where everyone feels empowered to seek help and thrive. One resource available through ECD is our Mental Health Toolkit, which was developed by former ECD chair Kaylin Staten, APR and past chair Jennifer Kramer, APR. Please also see Kramer’s recent blog, “Caring for Ourselves and Each Other: Mental Health Awareness in PR,” for more details.

For our mental health, let’s keep moving forward–together.

Warm regards,

Mark D. Weinstein 

PRSA East Central District Chair