Watertown Mental Health Advocates Highlight Support Resources and Awareness for Service Industry Workers
- Steve Jurrens
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Mental health is often an invisible struggle, but a recent conversation on Northeast Radio SD aims to bring it into the light. In our latest interview, local bartender and mental health advocate Jeff Amdahl, alongside returning guest and documentary filmmaker Carly Stewart (Mainstream Realty), sat down to discuss the pressing need for mental health awareness—particularly within the service industry and smaller communities.
The conversation, sparked by a serendipitous meeting while Stewart was gathering b-roll footage downtown, quickly dove into the realities of living with mental illness and the ongoing stigma that prevents many from seeking help.
The Invisible Burden
Amdahl, speaking from personal experience and recent workplace challenges, highlighted a significant double standard in how society views physical versus mental health. In many fast-paced industries, taking time off for a psychological crisis is often misunderstood or entirely dismissed.
“When people think of something that you might miss work for, physical health—something people can see—is so much more accepted,” Amdahl explained. “But mental health is more or less invisible to the people around you, and it’s really easy for that to be misconstrued or misinterpreted in the workplace.”
He compared a mental health crisis to a physical emergency, noting that if an employee were hit by a car, their absence would be immediately justified. However, chemical imbalances in the brain—which are just as real and scientifically backed—frequently fail to elicit the same empathy.
Bridging the Generational Gap
Stewart added her perspective on how different generations handle emotional distress. She noted that while younger generations have cultivated a higher level of awareness through social media and school programs, older generations often default to an “old school” mentality.
This traditional mindset often encourages individuals to simply “suck it up” or “fake it till you make it.” While Amdahl admitted this approach can sometimes be a helpful temporary coping mechanism, it falls dangerously short during a genuine crisis.
Key Takeaways for Mental Wellness
Throughout the interview, Amdahl and Stewart shared practical, everyday strategies for managing stress and supporting others:
· It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: You do not need a complex reason or a detailed explanation to feel bad. Amdahl stressed that it is perfectly acceptable to call a friend and simply say, “I just feel bad today.”
· Acknowledge the Signs: Checking in on loved ones can be as simple as noticing a shift in their demeanor and asking, “You seem a little different today. Are you okay?”
· Find Your Decompression Tactic: Whether it is Stewart’s strict 8-hour sleep schedule or Amdahl’s time spent hunting outdoors, finding a personal grounding technique is vital for daily stress management.
· Treat Crises like Emergencies: If you are experiencing a severe mental health episode, do not try to handle it alone. Go to a professional facility or an emergency room immediately.
Local Resources for Support
For residents in Watertown and the surrounding Glacial Lakes region, there are several confidential, accessible outlets available for those in need of immediate support:
· 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 for immediate connection to trained counselors.
· Human Service Agency (HSA) Crisis Line: 605-886-0123 (Available 24/7).
· HSA Crisis Drop-in Center: Located at 119 19th St. N.E., Watertown (Walk-ins welcome 24/7 for safe rooms and support).
· 211 Helpline: Call 211 to connect with various local social services.
Amdahl concluded the interview with a powerful reminder that no one has to suffer in silence, and that simply asking for help is the bravest first step. By continuing to share these stories, the Watertown community can foster a safer, more understanding environment for everyone.
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