The Smile Advocate Program
The SMILE Program is aimed at reducing suicide rates, depression, and anxiety in our region – as well as eradicating the stigma around mental health. This research-based program offers different ways for you to get involved:
S.M.I.L.E. Advocate Program Components
Understanding Mental Health:
The program offers an overview of mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, highlighting key symptoms and the importance of seeking help to reduce stigma.
Crisis Intervention and Response:
Participants will be trained in crisis intervention, learning how to respond effectively to those in mental health crises or expressing suicidal thoughts.
Risk Factors & Protective Factors:
Participants will learn about risk factors for suicidal thoughts, including mental illness, substance abuse, trauma, and isolation, as well as protective factors like social support, coping skills, and mental health care access.
Assessing Resources:
The program offers information on mental health and suicide prevention resources, including hotlines, counseling, support groups, and online tools.
Recognizing Warning Signs:
Participants will learn to recognize suicide warning signs, such as mood changes, expressions of hopelessness, social withdrawal, and giving away possessions. The program emphasizes taking any mention of suicidal thoughts seriously and seeking help immediately.
Self Care Coping Strategies:
Participants will learn self-care practices and coping strategies to enhance mental well-being and resilience, including stress management, relaxation exercises, mindfulness, and healthy habits.
Effective Communication:
Attendees will receive communication training to engage in open, supportive conversations about mental health and suicide, learning to listen empathetically, express concerns, and offer nonjudgmental support.
Promoting Help-Seeking Behavior:
The program seeks to reduce barriers to help-seeking by raising awareness of mental health services, lowering stigma, and empowering individuals to seek help when needed.
One Hour SMILE Advocate Session includes:
One Hour In-Person Training
Gratitude Journal
SFJ Thank you Gift
Electronic education materials (pdf of PowerPoint)
SFJ t-shirt
Why should your business have Smiles for Jake present to your team?
Improved employee well-being
Access to mental health services allows employees to better manage stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to improved overall health and well-being.
Increased productivity
When employees feel supported and have access to mental health resources, they are more likely to be focused and productive at work.
Higher employee retention
Employees who feel valued and supported by their employer regarding mental health are more likely to stay with the company.
Reduced absenteeism
Providing mental health services can help decrease absences due to stress related illnesses.
Positive workplace culture
A company that prioritizes mental health creates a more supportive and positive work environment for all employees.
Enhanced recruitment
Offering comprehensive mental health benefits can attract top talent who value employee well-being.
Cost savings
By proactively addressing mental health issues, companies can potentially reduce healthcare costs associated with untreated mental health conditions.
In addition to the benefits listed above, Smiles for Jake will provide signage for your business to showcase that you are a S.M.I.L.E. Advocate.
Prioritizing mental health in the workplace starts with open conversations.
Smiles for Jake’s SMILE Advocate Program offers businesses the opportunity to invite our team to educate employees about mental health, both at work and at home, with a focus on suicide prevention. Together, we can create a supportive environment where employees, educators students feel empowered to seek help and support one another.