.jpeg)
Elite Personal Brand Management
As we near the end of 2021, many COVID-19 concerns are ebbing. Infection numbers are lower and businesses have re-opened. However, mental health issues have increased over the last several months, with many experts saying we’re now in the middle of a mental health crisis, with depression and anxiety symptoms increasing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that from August 2020-February 2021, “the percentage of adults with recent symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder increased from 36.4% to 41.5%, and the percentage of those reporting unmet mental health care needs has increased from 9.2% to 11.7%.”
And, mental health issues extend beyond depression and anxiety, often including loneliness, isolation, exhaustion, and burnout. So, what does this mean for mental health professionals post-COVID?
When thinking about these professionals, you may not think of implementing a public relations (PR) strategy. However, since PR is communicating your story and expertise, this may be the best way to help the most significant number of people in the wake of COVID.
With Americans seeking mental health support and resources in greater numbers, mental health professionals can develop a public relations strategy to educate the public on identifying mental health issues and coping mechanisms while promoting overall wellbeing.
In this article, let’s look at five ways that PR can help mental health professionals.
One of the most effective PR tools, bylined articles boost your brand visibility by helping you establish thought leadership and expertise in your field. Additionally, they give you access to a broad audience, enabling you to explain your viewpoint in-depth.
For example, if writing an article for a mental health trade publication, you can deliver relevant, factual information on mental health issues, needs, and support through a well-crafted article, highlighted by your byline.
Podcasts are an excellent tool, helping mental health professionals reach a broad or a targeted audience (depending on the podcast). Through podcasting, mental health professionals not only can share accurate, positive information, educating listeners on mental health challenges and solutions, but they can also show their personalities, letting the audience get to know them better.
When developing a public relations strategy, mental health professionals should add television appearances, helping them to garner positive PR. For example, suppose you’re appearing on a local news cast, bringing awareness to mental health issues. In that case, you can publicize the event on different channels, such as social media, before the taping.
Additionally, afterward, you can post a follow-up on social media channels and your website about your experience, connecting with potential patients who may have questions or would like to book an appointment.
By being quoted in a newspaper or industry journal, for example, you can position yourself as a thought leader or industry expert, bolstering your personal brand. By appearing as a quoted expert in a highly-regarded publication, your visibility in the field will expand, making you a go-to resource for mental health.
According to Inc., “[t]hose who are considered experts in their field earned that status by establishing, building, and maintaining a thriving personal brand -- and continued to make the necessary strides toward strengthening their brand and securing influence and credibility.” Being quoted as an expert is one effective way to achieve this.
When it comes to PR, social media levels the playing field, giving an entrepreneur as much as a voice as an established corporation. With social media, you can reach a broad audience with your message as frequently as you want. You can also engage with readers through comments. The more you engage, the more you build a following.
Post-COVID, you’re already going to have a lot on your plate. However, this is the perfect time to shape and hone your personal brand as a mental health professional delivering educational and solution-based information.
But you’re not alone. Bell + Ivy can step in and take some of the pressure off. Bell + Ivy offers personalized online services like content research, personal brand bios, and more. For a consultation, contact us today.
