Building Resilient Families: WWT's Commitment to Mental Health with MHA of Eastern Missouri

WWT's enhanced relationship with Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri has been a welcome addition to the WWT For All Program and the well-being of our WWT employees.

In a time when mental health is being discussed more than ever, parents and caregivers are faced with the challenge of managing their well-being while helping children maintain their mental health and navigate difficult times. WWT and Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri have partnered to shed light on the vital role parents play in fostering a healthy mental environment for their children.

Parents as Protectors

Our first joint event in the fall 2024, "Safeguarding Children's Mental Health: Parents as Protectors," featured Brittany Graham, MSW, LCSW, Chief Program Officer for Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri. This fireside chat focused on parenting issues, particularly as the new school year begins. It addressed the concept of parents as "buffering adults" who can support and protect their children from the negative impact of stressful events. Brittany, with her extensive experience in social services and therapy, provided insights into factors that contribute to the development of mental illness and those that protect children's mental health. Participants learned about the importance of being a buffering adult and how co-regulating emotions during stressful times can be a powerful tool for navigating challenges like the back-to-school period.

The Magic of Togetherness

Our second event hosted in June of 2025, "Play, Laugh, Grow: The Magic of Togetherness," emphasized the importance of spending intentional time with children. Brittany returned to highlight how both the quality and quantity of time spent with children contribute significantly to their healthy development. The event explored key aspects of building strong family connections and supporting child development through intentional time together. Participants learned about the positive impacts of play, laughter, and time spent on child development. The session also provided resources and ideas for family-friendly activities available in the St. Louis area, offering opportunities for togetherness.

The Importance of Mental Health for Working Parents

Both events underscore the critical role parents play in their children's mental health. For working parents, balancing professional responsibilities with family time can be challenging. However, these sessions highlighted that intentional, quality time with children is not only beneficial but essential for their development. By being present and engaged, parents can create a nurturing environment that supports their children's emotional well-being.

As discussions around mental health become more prevalent, it's important for parents to recognize their role as protectors and nurturers. By fostering strong connections and being mindful of their children's emotional needs, parents can help safeguard their mental health, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for the next generation.

Brittany Graham is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Missouri and has been practicing therapy since 2013. For over 13 years, she has worked in the social services field, primarily focused on serving at-risk youth. Brittany is rostered in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Child Parent Psychotherapy, and is trained in the Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.

To learn more about Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri visit https://www.mha-em.org/home