An Unexpected Advocate for Mental Health

Many people were shocked by the viral sensation the lovable puppet Elmo created simply by asking “How are you doing?” After nearly 200 million views and 16,000 responses, it’s clear from the responses that we are not doing so well.

Those of us who work in mental health were not surprised. The U.S. surgeon general has stated that the declining mental health of our youth is the greatest public health crisis of our time. And those of us who work in organizations using the peer model of support, such as the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) also know that our feelings, particularly our deepest emotions, are most easily shared with our friends and others whom we trust. It really does make sense that so many people responded to Elmo!

Last year, NAMI DuPage served nearly 23,000 people in DuPage and surrounding communities and almost all our classes, groups, and support services were facilitated or co-facilitated by an individual living with mental illness or a family member. The “peer” model has proven to be highly successful in reducing anxiety and depression and even psychoses, as well as lowering hospital admissions. It is also effective in getting people into treatment necessary for their recovery. Although our staff and volunteers are not puppets with googly eyes, we are often the trusted friend that asks, “How are you doing?” and then LISTENS to the response.

As for me, I had not been a huge fan of Elmo since Christmas of 1996 when I waited in line for hours to buy a “Tickle Me Elmo.” Now, I’m tickled by Elmo for bringing attention to mental health and the role each of us can play in supporting others.

Geri Kerger, Executive Director

NAMI DuPage