BROOKINGS – Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. In honor of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Avera Behavioral Health of Brookings focused on acknowledging those in the Brookings area who have gone above and beyond to advocate decreasing the stigma around mental health.

The 2019 Avera Behavioral Health of Brookings Friend of Mental Health Award recipient is Chad Adamson.

Adamson works for the Brookings School District as the Mickelson Middle School counselor. 

He has worked with other entities to start the Brookings County Mental Health Coalition and the SocialNetWorks committee, leads the SEARCH Institute Assessments, organizes the annual Brookings School District Parent Symposium and is an active member of the Brookings County Child Protection Team.

Community members were encouraged to send in nominations of those they felt should be acknowledged for their efforts above and beyond to “make waves” in the Brookings community mental health sector.

Colleagues identified Adamson as a vital part of the school counseling department at Brookings School District for many years, modeling and supporting colleagues in increasing awareness in the mental health field. 

Adamson has been an integral person in the SEARCH Institute Developmental Assets Survey to gain more knowledge of the supports and strengths of Brookings students.

Staff members also look to Adamson for his guidance and expertise. They identified him is a constant bridge from the school district to outside mental health resources and he takes pride in helping support community mental health programs. 

“Not only has he been a bridge for the community and the school district, but he also helps bridge the school and SDSU Counseling programs. He is always open to help new counselors find their way in the school system and be a source for advice when things become difficult,” a press release from Avera says.