Source: hurdle.health
By Krista Minas
GW is home to many organizations on campus, and another amazing one has just been added: Hurdle Health. The GW Local has the inside scoop from Chief of Staff of Hurdle Health, Anam Zahra, on what the organization does, its goals, the impact its founders hope to make on the GW community, and how students can get involved.
Hurdle Health is a teletherapy platform designed for those who are underserved – primarily minority groups and individuals – in the traditional mental health space. The organization was founded by Kevin Dedner, who was personally affected by the lack of accessibility to healthcare in his fight against depression. His struggle served as a catalyst for the creation of the organization.
Hurdle Health is an organization with clear-cut values, which includes respecting the unique needs of everyone and creating a safe space shaped around cultural humility where everyone can feel understood.
According to Zahra, the organization is, “committed to providing culturally responsive, and evidence-based care to all people, while focusing on serving the Black community and other minorities.”
It’s an unfortunate reality, but only one-third of Black individuals who need mental health support end up receiving it, and Hurdle Health hopes to change that.
“GW is home to a diverse group of students, with varying ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds as well as lived experiences. We know how challenging the responsibilities of day-to-day life can be. Stress can take a serious toll on your mind and body. Moreso, we understand how racial and cultural injustices – from microaggressions in school and the workplace to racial traumas – can punctuate the burden of maintaining your wellness. Hurdle therapists are here to help you show up whole, operate with joy, and live with power,” Zahra said when asked about the impact Hurdle Health is hoping to make here at GW.
Do you have questions? Do you want to get involved? The Chief of Staff at Hurdle is a GW alum who would be happy to answer any questions at anam@hurdle.health, or you can learn more about Hurdle Health and therapy in general through a free information session at www.hurdle.heath. Hurdle Health also offers a free first therapy session for those who would like to begin their journey!
We encourage you to seek help if you need it, and Hurdle Health is a great way to do so.
