A Day of Remembrance and Awareness.

Today marks the third anniversary of my daughter Tracy's passing. Tracy had multiple mental health issues and while they weren’t the cause of her passing, they prevented her from functioning in everyday life. She struggled with addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other challenges.

Tracy was a bright and vibrant young woman, and while she received the best help possible throughout the country, she still couldn’t overcome the immense challenges that afflicted her. Mental health issues are just as real and debilitating as physical health issues, but unfortunately, they are often stigmatized and overlooked.

Personally, I have learned a great deal from Tracy's passing. I have come to realize just how important it is to be empathetic and understanding toward those who struggle with mental health and addiction issues. It is not enough to simply acknowledge the existence of these issues; we need to actively work towards creating a more accepting and supportive society for those who are suffering.

One of the most significant ways we can do this is by advocating for better access to mental health resources. In many areas, mental health services are either non-existent or severely underfunded. This leaves many individuals who desperately need help without any real options.

We also need to work towards removing the stigma that surrounds mental health issues. Too often, people who struggle with mental health are judged or criticized, rather than receiving the support and compassion they need. We need to create a culture where it is safe and acceptable to talk openly about mental health, and where individuals are not shamed or ostracized for seeking help.

There are also many steps we as employers can take to be more empathetic and supportive toward individuals with mental health issues. This begins with education and training. Managers and colleagues need to be educated on how to recognize the signs of mental health issues, and how to approach individuals who may be struggling. Bayard’s leadership team has been and continues to be sensitive to those that are afflicted.?

According to a?CDC report issued in 2022, 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in a given year. 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. 1 in 25 Americans lives with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression.?

Employers can also work to create a more supportive workplace culture. This can involve things like flexible schedules, mental health days, and access to counseling services. By creating a more understanding and accepting workplace culture, we can help to reduce the stress and anxiety that many individuals with mental health issues experience in their professional lives.

It is also important to recognize that mental health issues do not discriminate. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or social status. We need to be mindful of this fact and work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society.

Finally, we need to remember that the road to recovery is not always linear. Many individuals with mental health issues will experience setbacks and relapses along the way. It is important that we are patient and supportive, and that we do not judge or criticize individuals who may be struggling.

In memory of my daughter Tracy, I urge everyone to be more empathetic and understanding toward those who are struggling. We need to work together to create a more supportive and accepting society — one where individuals feel safe and empowered to seek the help they need.

Both Bayard and I will make a donation to The National Association on Mental Illness (NAMI). If possible, I hope you can find it in your heart to make a donation to this worthwhile cause.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please know that help is available. There are resources and support networks out there that can help you (or your loved one) on your journey toward recovery. Don't be afraid to reach out and seek the help you need. Remember, you are not alone, and you deserve to live a happy and fulfilling life.