When it comes to getting the community more engaged in mental health—where better to start than with the Baltimore Ravens? That’s the approach Sheppard Pratt took when launching its partnership with the Ravens in 2023.
“It’s important for the work we do to be accessible to as many people as possible,” shares Jennifer Weiss Wilkerson, MHSA, FACHE, senior vice president and chief strategy officer at Sheppard Pratt. “One of the best ways to do that is by meeting people where they are—and our partnership with the Baltimore Ravens has been the perfect avenue.”
Birds of a feather
“The Ravens are deeply rooted in the community,” explains Harsh K. Trivedi, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Sheppard Pratt. “There’s a natural alignment there. We know that mental health impacts everyone, regardless of race, age, gender, or income. When you go to a Ravens game, you see every section of the community there cheering them on, being part of the flock. When we think about getting our community engaged—that’s what it looks like.”
Walking toward better mental health
As we joined the Ravens community, we’ve been bringing mental health resources directly to fans.
Throughout the 2024 season, fans had the opportunity to learn more about mental health and Sheppard Pratt’s services while strolling down RavensWalk.
At the 2024 season home opener, teammates from Sheppard Pratt’s crisis services lined RavensWalk. They shared how people can help when someone is having a mental health crisis or in an urgent situation. And, community members had the opportunity to learn about Sheppard Pratt’s crisis services, including Psychiatric Urgent Care—a walk-in service for people who need to get connected to the mental healthcare that fits their needs.
In January, the team returned with a custom-painted backdrop by Baltimore artist Art By JLaw. Fans took pictures with the backdrop and showed their support for better mental health on their social media channels. Dozens of community members shared their moving stories of seeking mental healthcare, demonstrating the power of asking for help.
Help is here
The focus on mental health didn’t end when fans entered M&T Bank Stadium. During several home games, Sheppard Pratt’s mental health resources and contact information were prominently featured on end zone displays—showing game attendees just how easy it is to get help for their mental health. With 380+ sites of service throughout Maryland, it’s easy to access help and hope through Sheppard Pratt.
Educating the coaches
Now in its second year, Sheppard Pratt is hosting its annual Mental Health Training Camp this August. Sheppard Pratt mental health experts collaborate with the Baltimore Ravens to offer an interactive workshop designed to help youth sports coaches develop essential skills and strategies to support the mental well-being of athletes.
“Last summer, we invited high school athletic directors, coaches, and athletic trainers from across the state to join us at the Ravens’ practice facility in Owings Mills. We educated them on youth mental health—things they need to be aware of, signs and symptoms they can be on the lookout for, and what to do if they see those signs and symptoms in the kids they work with,” says Wilkerson.
The day included a lively panel discussion with Dr. Trivedi and Tricia Bent-Goodley, PhD, Ravens team clinician. Ravens alum Torrey Smith participated in a Q&A with attendees, sharing why mental health is so important to him. Coaches left training camp both inspired and prepared to best support their athletes.
“Youth mental health is a significant and growing issue, but parents, coaches, and teachers don’t always know what to do or how to handle it. So, we are equipping them with the tools to help them recognize issues and respond to them,” explains Wilkerson. “We’re helping them to build the skills to be supports and have easy access to the resources they need to help their athletes thrive.”
The 2025 Mental Health Training Camp will provide coaches with practical tips and strategies focused on concussions, anxiety, nutrition for youth athletes, and more.