Season 1 Episode 11: For Now We Live: Pro-social activities and the Mental Wellness Gym Model for Rurals with Erik Schoen

In this insightful conversation, Bianca D. McCall and Erik Schoen discuss the challenges and opportunities in addressing opioid use disorder and mental health in rural Nevada. They explore the importance of community engagement, pro-social activities, and the need for a shift in mental health models to better serve the unique needs of rural populations. Erik shares his experiences and insights on building infrastructure, fostering connections, and the existential aspects of health and wellness. In this conversation, Erik Schoen and Bianca D. McCall discuss the importance of building trust in rural communities, the role of lived experience in treatment, and the integration of holistic approaches and technology in mental health care. They emphasize the need for cultural competence, the empowerment of community members, and the significance of mentorship in fostering growth within these communities. The dialogue highlights the challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between traditional treatment methods and innovative, community-driven solutions.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.