In this episode of Healthcare Americana, host Christopher Habig, CEO of Freedom Healthworks, interviews Dr. Ken Duckworth, Chief Medical Officer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). They discuss the alarming rise in mental health conditions, with approximately 1 in 5 people affected, a number that has increased since the pandemic, prominently driven by anxiety and depression. Dr. Duckworth sheds light on the role social media and smartphones have played in mental health. He then goes on to explain NAMI’s free programs and how they can better assist primary care doctors and their patients. The conversation is largely focused on the power of personal narratives, highlighting Dr. Duckworth’s USA Today Best-Seller, “You Are Not Alone,” which shares real stories of individuals who have bravely faced mental health conditions. This episode offers valuable insights into the pressing need for accessible and compassionate mental health support in our society, while showcasing the transformative potential of sharing personal experiences.
