STARKVILLE, Miss. – A Mississippi State University Extension instructor has been selected to a national Extension Foundation committee focused on improving mental health.

Bobbie Jo Bensaid recently joined the foundation’s Mental Health and Well-Being leadership team. Based in the MSU Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion, she collaborates with other Extension professionals across the U.S. to share resources and publicize mental health services and events.

Bensaid said the group highlights non-clinical, prevention-based work being done in the allied areas of mental health and well-being, facilitates the sharing of resources, informs members of upcoming events, and explores ways that Extension professionals can collaborate more effectively.

The group emphasizes the role of social and emotional well-being in mental health.

“It’s been a pleasure to be a part of this leadership team,” said Bensaid. “Getting to virtually meet with others who serve their communities in a mental health capacity is encouraging, and I enjoy getting to help in different settings.”

Visit the Extension Foundation Mental Health and Well-Being blog at https://connect.extension.org/g/mental-health-and-well-being.