Southwest Behavioral & Health Services (SB&H), a leader in integrated health, today announced that its InSHAPE program has received the Healthy Arizona Worksites Program (HAWP) Platinum Award.

InSHAPE, a comprehensive health program, addresses the complex issues involved in increasing the lifespan and improving the health and quality of life for people experiencing mental illness. The Platinum Award recognizes Arizona businesses making efforts to positively affect the health and well-being of its employees, their families, and their community. The criterion for this award evaluates evidence-based worksite health initiatives and promising programs.

The SB&H InSHAPE program pairs people who have a mental health illness with a personal health mentor trained in fitness and nutrition. The participants receive coaching in such things as physical fitness, healthy eating, and smoking cessation. Mentors also help navigate access to quality healthcare.

“Our InSHAPE program follows a recovery philosophy including a personal approach that is self-determined, self-directed, and self-managed,” said Marcie Herzog, vice president of community services. “Individuals take what they learn and incorporate it into their everyday routine with the goal that they will make long-standing lifestyle changes. Being social and engaged in the community is encouraged and is an important part of the program.”

HAWP is a public health initiative developed through a partnership between the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. This statewide program provides Arizona employers with training, technical assistance, tools, and resources to design, implement, and evaluate worksite wellness initiatives.

About Southwest Behavioral & Health Services
Phoenix-based Southwest Behavioral & Health Services (SB&H) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides compassionate primary care, substance abuse, and mental health services that enhance lives and improve communities. Services include outpatient mental health treatment and psychiatric services, including medication monitoring; assistance for persons with addictions; intensive inpatient care for persons in crisis; residential housing, in-home and supported housing services; prevention services, community outreach, and school-based counseling; lifespan services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder; and four opioid replacement clinics. Southwest Behavioral & Health Services has locations throughout the greater Phoenix Metro area and in rural Maricopa, Gila, Mohave, Coconino, and Yavapai counties. For more information about SB&H programs, services, and ways to help, visit https://www.sbhservices.org/.