Blueprint Creative Group

Blueprint Creative Group Joins The Bizzell Collective of Top Firms Uniting to Offer Federal Government Agencies with Integrated Solutions as One-Stop Shop

blueprintcreative — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 22:04:56 +0000

This powerful synergy of eight federal contracting firms de-risks the complexities of large, multi-faceted solicitations by offering integrated solutions. April 4, 2024 Eight leading firms with proven past performance across a range of federal government agencies have collaborated for the formation of the Bizzell Collective, a powerful synergy designed to empower federal agencies in tackling complex challenges with integrated solutions. The Bizzell Collective brings together the diverse expertise of: Bizzell US with significant expertise in public health program development, data analytics, program management and communication outreach with past performance supporting Health and Human Services agencies, Department of Labor, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration among dozens of other agencies. Blueprint Creative Group with expertise in strategic communications, outreach, public health equity, multimedia design and meetings and logistics with past performance supporting the U.S. Army Medical and Research and Development Command, Army National Guard, and NASA among other agencies. Cyber Security Innovations (CSI) with past performance delivering cybersecurity solutions, compliance, and FedRAMP authorization for agencies like the Social Security Administration and the US Navy. Dobbs Defense Solutions with a deep understanding of the Department of Defense’s and the intelligence community’s policies especially in areas related to cybersecurity service management and infrastructure cybersecurity, enterprise IT and business intelligence and past performance supporting the Department of Defense, U.S. Army, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among others. MMC Consulting supporting agencies like FEMA, USDA, and USAID with acquisition and program management, human capital solutions, and training. Peers & Partners with significant past performance supporting CDC, ACF, and NIH with public health research implementation, strategic communications, and program management. Q2 Consulting Solutions with past performance supporting agencies like USDA, USAID, Department of Treasury and US Air Force One with transformational services for the stand-up of PMOs, project controls, program evaluations and assessment, and dashboard visualization. TactIQ with expertise enhancing workforce innovation for the Department of Labor with its innovative software development solutions built on AWS and customizable to meet the unique needs of any organization. “The power of teaming, as exemplified by the Bizzell Collective, lies in the seamless integration of diverse capabilities to deliver a sum greater than its parts,” shares Dr. Anton Bizzell, President and CEO of The Bizzell Group. “Each company brings a unique set of skills and experiences that, when united, create a formidable force capable of delivering strategic and scalable results.” The Bizzell Collective covers the following socioeconomic certifications, including SBA 8(a), Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Economically Disadvantage Woman-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB), HUBZONE certifications. The Bizzell Collective provides a comprehensive suite of services including: Public Health Expertise: Addressing health literacy, behavior change, and stakeholder engagement in public health initiatives. Strategic Communications & Outreach: Crafting compelling messages and executing effective communication strategies across various channels. Program & Project Management: Leading projects from inception to completion with expertise in planning, execution, and evaluation. Data Analytics & IT Solutions: Leveraging data insights and robust IT solutions to drive informed decision-making. Cybersecurity & Compliance: Ensuring data security and project compliance with the latest government regulations. Benefits for Contracting Officers: Reduced Risk: Mitigate project execution risk through the collective’s collaborative approach and proven track record. Streamlined Procurement: Simplify the contracting process by working with a single entity for comprehensive solutions. Unparalleled Expertise: Access a wide range of specialized skills without the need to manage multiple vendors. Improved Efficiency: Ensure seamless project execution with clear communication and unified management. The Bizzell Collective positions itself as a trusted partner for federal agencies seeking innovative solutions to navigate complex challenges. Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Nashville Department of Transportation awards Blueprint… Blueprint Creative Group Supports Opa-Locka Community… Blueprint Creative Group Supports U.S. Trade…

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Nashville Department of Transportation awards Blueprint Creative Group with Vision Zero Traffic Safety Education and Awareness Contract

blueprintcreative — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 16:22:43 +0000

Nashville Department of Transportation awards Blueprint Creative Group with Vision Zero Traffic Safety Education and Awareness Contract August 13, 2023 Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT) recently awarded Blueprint Creative Group with a strategic marketing communications contract to launch and execute a robust education and awareness campaign for the Vision Zero program. The aim is to encourage behavior change among motorists, pedestrians and cyclists and promote safer streets to ultimately eliminate traffic fatalities on Nashville roads. The $2 million contract has been awarded for a period of thirty-six months with an option to extend to sixty months. Vision Zero is a national program that has been adopted by cities in response to increasing traffic crashes. “One traffic fatality is too many and can be prevented with safer driving practices, more effective road engineering and greater education and awareness about each individual’s responsibility to make Nashville’s roads safer. So we’re excited to support NDOT with developing a multimedia campaign to change risky motorist and pedestrian behaviors in support of the city’s Vision Zero goal,” shares Fabiola Fleuranvil, CEO of Blueprint Creative Group. “Our strategy is to implement a public health approach and incorporate evidenced-based strategies that have proven to work in reducing traffic fatalities in other markets.” NDOT, formerly Metro Public Works, developed the Vision Zero Action Plan in response to alarming statistics that show that Nashville’s roads are increasingly becoming more dangerous year after year. Since 2014, 468 people have lost their lives to fatal traffic collisions on state and local roads in Nashville. In an average year, 360 people driving, 75 people walking, and 8 people biking are killed or seriously injured on Nashville roads. Vision Zero aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities by 2050. The program is funded with $25 million engineering and enforcement and $1 million towards education and awareness. The scope of work for this contract encompasses a multifaceted approach toward raising awareness and fostering active participation from the entire community. Blueprint Creative Group will craft a long-term strategic communications plan and media strategy to drive widespread awareness, promote positive social norms and change risky behaviors. The campaign also includes a comprehensive brand strategy to instill a sense of collective responsibility toward traffic safety. In addition to engaging the broader public, Blueprint will design specific educational programming and materials tailored to key stakeholders such as public events, neighborhoods, community groups, government, and non-profit partners. The agency will also play an instrumental role in crafting educational content for school outreach, ensuring the Vision Zero message reaches the younger generation to create a lasting impact on future transportation practices. This contract between Blueprint Creative Group and Nashville DOT holds tremendous promise for igniting positive change on the roads of the vibrant city as this collaboration seeks to foster a collective commitment to traffic safety and ensure a safer and more equitable transportation environment for all. About Blueprint Creative Group Founded in 2007, Blueprint Creative Group is an SBA 8(a) certified woman-owned strategic communications agency that supports government and institutions with enterprise-wide communications, public affairs support, health and science communications and multimedia development. As a consultancy, the agency doesn’t approach communications as a standalone function and instead, integrates with strategic planning to ultimately drive business and organizational impact. To learn more about Blueprint Creative Group’s capabilities, visit blueprintcreativegroup.com Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Nashville Department of Transportation awards Blueprint… Blueprint Creative Group Supports Opa-Locka Community… Blueprint Creative Group Supports U.S. Trade…

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Blueprint Creative Group Supports Opa-Locka Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) with Rebranding

blueprintcreative — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:41:32 +0000

Blueprint Creative Group Supports Opa-Locka Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) with Rebranding Blueprint Creative Group, a strategic communications agency known for delivering enterprise-wide communications to institutions and government entities, has been retained by the Opa-Locka Community Redevelopment Agency (OCRA) to reposition and brand the agency. OCRA sought to leverage the city’s position as an aviation and logistics hub and sought Blueprint Creative’s expertise to support its economic development marketing plan. The Opa-Locka Community Redevelopment Agency is charged with catalyzing growth within the city’s business corridor and transforming the community into a hub for innovation. “Blueprint Creative Group has an extensive portfolio supporting economic development organizations and cities with repositioning strategies, market attraction and business promotion, and we’re excited to support the Opa-locka community in this work,” shares Fabiola Fleuranvil, CEO of Blueprint Creative Group. “Our team is committed to delivering a comprehensive marketing and communications program that will support the Opa-locka CRA in more deeply engaging residents and supporting the local business community as part of its strategic plan to attract aviation-sector businesses and investments.” As part of the scope of work, Blueprint Creative Group will craft an overarching brand identity for OCRA and positioning the agency within the community and showcasing its role in creating a vibrant ecosystem. Opa-locka, with its strategic advantage as the hub for Miami’s executive airport, the Amazon facility and several other reputable logistics and aviation-sector businesses, anticipates that the new brand strategy will ultimately support OCRA’s regional and national focus to attract new businesses to the city. About Blueprint Creative Group Founded in 2007, Blueprint Creative Group is an SBA 8(a) certified woman-owned strategic communications agency that supports government and institutions with enterprise-wide communications, public affairs support, health and science communications and multimedia development. As a consultancy, the agency doesn’t approach communications as a standalone function and instead, integrates with strategic planning to ultimately drive business and organizational impact. To learn more about Blueprint Creative Group’s capabilities, visit blueprintcreativegroup.com Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Blueprint Creative Group Supports U.S. Trade… Blueprint Creative Group Supports NASA Open… Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health…

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Blueprint Creative Group Supports U.S. Trade and Development Agency with Southeast Asia Program

blueprintcreative — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 13:46:13 +0000

Blueprint Creative Group Supports U.S. Trade and Development Agency with Southeast Asia Program Blueprint Creative Group has been awarded a 30-month contract by the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to organize and execute a six-part series of healthcare infrastructure development workshops in the Indo-Pacific region. The series supports USTDA’s Indo-Pacific Framework to support emerging sectors in key markets in the region, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Philippines. The decision to award the Blueprint team the contract was driven by the agency’s extensive experience in international development, conference planning and organizing and business development. The Indo-Pacific HealthTech Workshop Series consists of six in-person and hybrid workshops focusing on healthcare infrastructure in bilateral country partners – Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam – culminating with a regional focus event in Singapore. These workshops aim to drive innovation, foster international collaboration, and advance healthcare standards in the Indo-Pacific region. They bring together government institutions, healthcare organizations, industry leaders, and U.S. businesses to explore transformative solutions, showcase success stories, and create meaningful partnerships that elevate healthcare services and infrastructure in the participating countries. “Blueprint Creative Group has extensive past performance in economic development both domestically and abroad and have supported economies with business attraction, investment promotion and market positioning, shared Fabiola Fleuranvil, CEO of Blueprint Creative Group. “We’re excited to support USTDA for the Indo-Pacific Framework and support the agency in engaging U.S. business industry with Southeast Asian stakeholders.” As part of the USTDA contract, Blueprint Creative supports the agency with Reverse Trade Missions, workshops, conferences and technical assistance in key emerging markets. The scope of work also includes business development functions to identify and scout potential U.S. partners with the capacity to align their goods and services with procurement opportunities in the priority markets. Additionally, as a strategic communications firm, Blueprint collaborates with USTDA’s Office of Public Affairs to develop marketing strategies to engage U.S. industry and foreign markets and to ensure brand consistency and messaging align with the agency’s brand standards. About Blueprint Creative Group Founded in 2007, Blueprint Creative Group is an SBA 8(a) certified woman-owned strategic communications agency that supports government and institutions with enterprise-wide communications, public affairs support, health and science communications and multimedia development. As a consultancy, the agency doesn’t approach communications as a standalone function and instead, integrates with strategic planning to ultimately drive business and organizational impact. To learn more about Blueprint Creative Group’s capabilities, visit blueprintcreativegroup.com Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Blueprint Creative Group Supports NASA Open… Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health… Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission Retains Blueprint…

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Blueprint Creative Group Supports NASA Open Innovation Initiative to Drive Diversity in Space Technology

blueprintcreative — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 11:29:38 +0000

Blueprint Creative Group Supports NASA Open Innovation Initiative to Drive Diversity in Space Technology Blueprint Creative Group has been retained to support Ensemble Government Services in a task order to implement NASA’s Space Technology Inclusive Innovation Challenge. Blueprint Creative’s role is to develop a robust marketing and communications program to launch, promote and engage prospective participants for the NASA SpaceTech Catalyst Prize competition. The competition, which culminates with an in-person convening at NASA, is part of the NASA Open Innovation Services $175 million Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quality (IDIQ) contract. The Space Technology Inclusive Innovation Challenge is an initiative under America COMPETES authority that seeks to identify and recognize individuals and organizations that support and enhance the capacity and skill sets of underrepresented and diverse innovators, researchers, technologists, and entrepreneurs in the field of space technology. This challenge will highlight best practices and solutions to improve outcomes for diverse applicants while competing for space technology research and development awards and transitioning their innovations for commercial success. “We are excited to support the Ensemble team and NASA with launching the competition aimed at raising awareness around opportunities in space tech innovation and engaging technologists and innovators in space tech to participate in NASA’s funding pipeline,” shares Fabiola Fleuranvil, CEO of Blueprint Creative Group. “Our value to the team expands the opportunity to more deeply engage innovators across the diversity spectrum and leverage our relationships within the technology and venture capital ecosystem, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) and diverse innovation-focused founders across the country.” As a teaming partner to Ensemble, Blueprint Creative is working to amplify NASA’s Early Stage Innovations and Partnerships Portfolio (ESIP) outreach efforts to attract a diverse pool of high-quality applicants from different backgrounds to participate in this competition while also creating a pipeline for future NASA funding opportunities. Additionally, Blueprint will facilitate the competition by developing the competition’s brand strategy and messaging, developing stakeholder partnerships, implementing strategic communications to launch and publicize the competition, and organizing and producing the in-person convening for awardees. The impact of this prize competition goes beyond just recognizing achievements. It aims to create an ecosystem that bridges the gap between technology for space and technology for our planet and strengthening the nation’s aerospace industry and fostering technological advancements in crucial areas such as climate change, clean energy, lunar utilization, and commercial space capabilities. About Blueprint Creative Group Founded in 2007, Blueprint Creative Group is an SBA 8(a) certified woman-owned strategic communications agency that supports government and institutions with enterprise-wide communications, public affairs support, health and science communications and multimedia development. As a consultancy, the agency doesn’t approach communications as a standalone function and instead, integrates with strategic planning to ultimately drive business and organizational impact. To learn more about Blueprint Creative Group’s capabilities, visit blueprintcreativegroup.com Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Blueprint Creative Group Supports NASA Open… Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health… Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission Retains Blueprint…

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Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health Division to Capabilities to Address Veteran Suicides, Mental Health Crisis, Maternal Health and Other Public Health Issues

blueprintcreative — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 09:59:14 +0000

Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health Division to Capabilities to Address Veteran Suicides, Mental Health Crisis, Maternal Health and Other Public Health Issues April 21, 2023 Blueprint Creative Group, a leading strategic communications agency with a health and science communications practice, has expanded its capabilities with a behavioral health division. The company aims to revolutionize how public health agencies and the federal government address critical public health issues such as the mental health crisis, veteran suicide, maternal health outcomes, and opioid addiction. The new behavioral health division incorporates the latest research and insights from behavioral science and brain function to develop cognitive and behavioral techniques to elicit changes in attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that promote help-seeking behaviors. The use of social norms messaging is also integrated to shift perceptions of what is normative and acceptable behavior, which can also support health equity programs. With a staff neuroscientist specializing in brain function, behavioral science, and behavior change, Blueprint Creative Group is committed to delivering innovative solutions that address the most pressing health and social challenges of our time. “Behavior change is at the heart of our health and science communications work. By understanding the science behind behavior change, we can help government and public health agencies be more impactful in addressing the social norms that contribute to negative behaviors and lifestyles,” shares Fabiola Fleuranvil, CEO of Blueprint Creative Group. “Evidence-based approaches are proven to do more than just educate and create awareness and instead, drive measurable behavior change at scale.” The need for evidence-based approaches is crucial, especially when addressing critical social issues such as veteran suicide. According to a 2020 report from the Department of Veterans Affairs, an average of 17.6 veterans died by suicide each day in 2018, with the majority being 50 years and older. A comprehensive public health approach is necessary to address the underlying causes of veteran suicide and promote help-seeking behaviors. By leveraging behavior change techniques, Blueprint Creative Group’s behavioral health division aims to make a meaningful impact on veteran suicide rates. Behavior change can also be leveraged for women’s health to improve maternal health outcomes. Maternal mortality rates in the U.S. have been increasing, and according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 700 women die annually in the U.S. due to pregnancy-related complications. Many of these deaths are preventable, and behavior change can play a significant role in reducing maternal mortality rates. Blueprint Creative Group’s behavioral health division aims to address this issue by developing evidence-based approaches that promote positive health behaviors during women’s reproductive years, at pregnancy and postpartum. Behavior change can also be used to address the complex mental health crisis and opioid crisis in the country. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in five adults in the U.S. experience mental illness in a given year. The opioid crisis has also become a significant public health concern, with approximately 50,000 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2019 alone. Behavior change and social norms messaging can help to shift perceptions around mental health and substance abuse, reducing the stigma surrounding these issues, and promoting help-seeking behaviors. “We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that address the most pressing health and social challenges of our time,” says Fleuranvil. “Our expanded behavioral health division enables us to deliver the kind of transformative, evidenced-based impact that traditional marketing and public education alone cannot achieve in persuading people to get the help they need when they need it.” With a proven track record of success and a team of experts at the forefront of the field, Blueprint Creative Group’s expansion underscores its commitment to using science and creativity to drive positive change in the world. About Blueprint Creative Group Founded in 2007, Blueprint Creative Group is an SBA 8(a) certified woman-owned strategic communications agency that supports government and institutions with enterprise-wide communications, public affairs support, health and science communications and multimedia development. As a consultancy, the agency doesn’t approach communications as a standalone function and instead, integrates with strategic planning to ultimately drive business and organizational impact. To learn more about Blueprint Creative Group’s capabilities, visit blueprintcreativegroup.com Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health… Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission Retains Blueprint… Implementing Social Norms Messaging – Part…

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Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission Retains Blueprint Creative Group for Rebranding Work

blueprintcreative — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 09:49:24 +0000

Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission Retains Blueprint Creative Group for Rebranding Work Blueprint Creative Group is excited to announce that we have been awarded the task of developing and implementing a rebranding strategy for Metropolitan Action Commission (MAC). MAC is an organization that provides resources and emergency relief support for families and individuals in need. However, our goal is to reposition MAC as an organization focused on promoting upward mobility and empowering individuals and families to become self-sufficient. MAC has been providing resources and emergency relief support for over 40 years in Nashville, Tennessee. They have helped thousands of individuals and families with basic needs, such as housing, food, and utility assistance. MAC is a vital resource for the community, and we are proud to be working with them to elevate their brand and expand their impact. Rebranding is the process of changing the way the public sees an organization. It involves developing a new brand identity, including a new name, logo, tagline, and messaging that accurately reflect the organization’s mission, values, and vision. A successful rebranding can change the way an organization is perceived, attracting new supporters, increasing funding, and expanding its impact. Our team will be working with MAC to develop a new positioning statement and value proposition that highlights the organization’s data-driven impact. We will be enhancing their marketing messages, redesigning their brand, and creating a marketing campaign and tagline to promote this new brand. Additionally, we will be creating a media campaign to amplify their message and reach a wider audience. The rebranding process will involve extensive research and collaboration with MAC’s leadership team, staff, and stakeholders. We will work closely with them to understand their goals and objectives, their target audience, and the current perception of their brand. Our team will analyze their competitors and market trends to develop a unique and compelling brand that stands out in the crowded nonprofit sector. We are excited to work with Metro Action to reposition them as a leading organization focused on promoting upward mobility and empowering individuals and families to become self-sufficient. By elevating their brand, we hope to increase their impact and expand their reach, ultimately making a positive difference in the lives of the people they serve. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project! Social Sharing[Sassy_Social_Share]continue reading Blueprint Creative Group Adds Behavioral Health… Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission Retains Blueprint… Implementing Social Norms Messaging – Part…

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Implementing Social Norms Messaging – Part III

blueprintcreative — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 09:20:48 +0000

Implementing Social Norms Messaging – Part III In Part I of this three-part series, we explored the potential of social norms messaging as an alternative approach to reducing veteran suicides. Part II of this series discussed how traditional suicide prevention marketing campaigns can be ineffective in changing behaviors and preventing suicide, and that shifting perceptions of normative and acceptable behavior is an important aspect of reducing veteran suicides and the use of social norms messaging to create new norms around help-seeking behavior. As we close out this series, Part III provides a practical implementation framework but also discusses the challenges and limitations of implementing social norms messaging campaigns. Practical Implementation of the Social Norms Strategy As research on social norms messaging and suicide prevention grows, there are several promising opportunities to implement this approach in reducing veteran suicides. One potential opportunity is to incorporate social norms messaging into existing suicide prevention programs and campaigns. For example, the VA could develop social norms messaging campaigns that target specific groups of veterans, such as those who have recently returned from deployment or those who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition. Another opportunity is to leverage social media and other digital platforms to disseminate social norms messaging. Social media has become a powerful tool for communication and can be used to reach a large audience. The VA could partner with social media influencers and veteran support organizations to promote social norms messaging and encourage help-seeking behavior. In addition, social norms messaging could be integrated into clinical practice. Mental health providers could incorporate social norms messaging into their treatment plans and use it as a tool for increasing help-seeking behavior among their patients. Finally, ongoing research can provide insights into the most effective ways to implement social norms messaging and measure its impact on reducing veteran suicides. By continuing to study the effectiveness of social norms messaging, we can refine and improve this approach to suicide prevention and ultimately save lives. Potential Limitations of Social Norms Messaging While social norms messaging has the potential to be a powerful tool in reducing veteran suicides, there are also potential limitations that should be considered. One limitation is that social norms messaging may not be effective for all individuals or populations. It is possible that certain groups may not be as influenced by social norms or may have different perceptions of what is normative behavior. In addition, social norms messaging may not be effective for individuals with severe mental health conditions or who are in crisis. Another limitation is that social norms messaging may be less effective if it is not delivered consistently or through the appropriate channels. For example, if social norms messaging is only presented in one medium (e.g. social media), it may not reach all individuals who need to hear the message. In addition, if the message is not delivered by a trusted source or in a culturally appropriate manner, it may not have the desired impact. Finally, social norms messaging should not be viewed as a replacement for traditional mental health interventions or medical treatment. While social norms messaging can help shift perceptions and create a culture of help-seeking, it is important to ensure that individuals have access to appropriate mental health care and support services. Challenges in Implementation Implementing social norms messaging campaigns can face several challenges, including: Resistance to change: People often resist changing their attitudes or behaviors, especially when it goes against their social norms. It can be challenging to shift the prevailing social norms, particularly if they are deeply ingrained. Message clarity: The effectiveness of social norms messaging depends on how well the message is conveyed. If the message is not clear, concise, and relevant, people may not understand it or pay attention to it. Stigma associated with help-seeking: Despite efforts to reduce stigma, there is still a lot of shame and embarrassment associated with seeking help for mental health issues. People may feel reluctant to seek help even if they know it is the right thing to do. Limited reach: Even the best social norms messaging campaign may not reach everyone who needs it. There may be groups or individuals who are not exposed to the message or who do not receive the message in a way that resonates with them. Limited resources: Developing and implementing a social norms messaging campaign can be costly and time-consuming. It may require extensive research, testing, and marketing efforts to ensure its effectiveness. Limited resources can be a significant barrier to the successful implementation of a campaign. Addressing Criticisms and Concerns Counter-arguments against using social norms messaging as a suicide prevention strategy may include: Ethical concerns: Some individuals may feel uncomfortable with the idea of using social norms to change behavior, seeing it as manipulative or coercive. Lack of evidence: While there is some research supporting the effectiveness of social norms messaging, there is still limited evidence on its long-term impact on behavior change. Cultural differences: Social norms may vary across different cultures and communities, which could make it challenging to develop a messaging campaign that is effective across diverse populations. Stigma: Some individuals may still feel shame or embarrassment about seeking help for mental health concerns, which could undermine the effectiveness of a social norms messaging campaign that encourages help-seeking behavior. Limited resources: Developing and implementing an effective social norms messaging campaign requires significant resources, including funding, research, and expertise in messaging and communication. Some organizations or communities may lack the resources needed to undertake such an effort. Ethical Concerns While social norms messaging has been shown to be effective in promoting positive behavior change, there are also ethical concerns that need to be considered. One concern is the potential for social norms messaging to promote conformity and stigmatize those who do not adhere to the norm. This could create pressure on individuals to conform to a specific behavior, even if it is not in their best interest. For example, if the social norm is to seek help

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Breaking the Stigma: Social Norms and Help-Seeking Behavior – Part II

blueprintcreative — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:33:06 +0000

Breaking the Stigma: Social Norms and Help-Seeking Behaviors Part II April 18, 2023 In Part I of this series on the power of social norms messaging to reduce veteran suicides, we explored the potential of social norms messaging as an alternative approach to reducing veteran suicides. Despite various resources and prevention campaigns implemented by the VA, the rates of veteran suicide have continued to rise. The article argues that the VA’s current approach relies heavily on individual-level interventions and suggests that alternative approaches, such as social norms messaging, may be more effective in changing behavior. While Part I provides an overview of contributing factors, the VA’s efforts, and the pandemic’s toll on veteran suicides, this second part delves into the potential of social norms messaging and provides examples of how it can be implemented to reduce veteran suicides. Suicide Prevention Marketing Tactics: A Review of Conventional Approaches Traditional marketing awareness and prevention campaigns aimed at preventing suicides typically rely on providing information and education about the risk factors for suicide, the warning signs of suicidal ideation, and the availability of resources for seeking help. These campaigns often use slogans, brochures, and media campaigns to increase awareness and encourage people to seek help. However, research suggests that traditional marketing and prevention campaigns may not be effective in changing behavior and preventing suicide. One reason for this is that campaigns may not take into account the complex social and cultural factors that influence suicidal behavior. For example, many campaigns may focus on individual risk factors such as depression, without acknowledging the social and environmental factors that contribute to suicidal behavior. Additionally, campaigns that emphasize the importance of seeking help may not take into account the social norms and stigma around seeking help for mental health issues. In contrast, social norms messaging is different from traditional marketing awareness and prevention campaigns in several ways. Firstly, social norms messaging focuses on changing perceptions of what is normative and acceptable behavior rather than simply providing information about the issue. This approach is grounded in the idea that people’s behavior is influenced by what they perceive to be normative behavior in their social environment, rather than simply by their knowledge of what is objectively right or wrong. The aim is to shift behaviors in a positive direction by changing the norms. Secondly, social norms messaging often employs a positive, empowering tone that seeks to inspire people to take positive action rather than simply warning them about the negative consequences of their behavior. This approach has been found to be more effective in motivating behavior change than fear-based messaging. Thirdly, social norms messaging often involves community-level interventions rather than individual-level interventions. This means that social norms messaging seeks to change the behavior of a community or social group rather than just targeting individual behavior change. This approach is particularly effective in addressing issues such as suicide, which are often influenced by social and cultural factors. Finally, social norms messaging is often designed to be more engaging and interactive than traditional marketing and prevention campaigns. This can involve using social media and other digital platforms to disseminate messages and create online communities around behavior change. Examples of Social Norms Messaging that Work There are several examples of effective social norms messaging that have been used to address a variety of health-related behaviors, including suicide prevention. Here are a few examples: “Know the Five Signs” Campaign: This campaign was developed by the National Council for Behavioral Health and is designed to help people recognize the signs of emotional suffering and mental health issues. The campaign uses social norms messaging to communicate that it is normal to struggle with mental health at times, and that seeking help is a sign of strength. The campaign has been successful in changing attitudes about mental health and increasing help-seeking behavior. “Man Therapy” Campaign: This campaign was developed by the Colorado Office of Suicide Prevention and uses humor and social norms messaging to encourage men to seek help for mental health issues. The campaign features a fictional therapist named Dr. Rich Mahogany, who uses a humorous and irreverent approach to engage men and challenge stereotypes about masculinity and mental health. The campaign has been successful in reaching men who might not otherwise seek help for mental health issues. “Be the One to” Campaign: This campaign was developed by the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network and uses social norms messaging to encourage people to take action to prevent suicide. The campaign features a variety of messages that encourage people to “be the one to” ask for help, listen to someone in need, or take other proactive steps to prevent suicide. The campaign has been successful in raising awareness about suicide prevention and encouraging people to take action. “It’s Okay to Talk About Suicide” Campaign: This campaign was developed by the American Association of Suicidology and uses social norms messaging to challenge the stigma around suicide and encourage open and honest communication about suicide. The campaign features a variety of messages that communicate that it is okay to talk about suicide and that seeking help is a sign of strength. The campaign has been successful in increasing awareness about suicide prevention and encouraging people to seek help when they need it. The “buddy check” program: This program was created by the military to help reduce suicide rates among service members. The program encourages service members to check in on each other and seek help if they are struggling with mental health issues. The messaging emphasizes that seeking help is the norm and that it is a sign of strength to reach out for support. The “It’s Up to Us” campaign: This campaign was launched in California to reduce suicide rates among young adults. The campaign uses social norms messaging to shift perceptions of help-seeking behavior among this population. The messaging emphasizes that seeking help for mental health issues is a common and acceptable behavior. The “Zero Suicide” program: This program is a comprehensive suicide prevention initiative

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The Power of Social Norms in Reducing Veteran Suicides – Part I

blueprintcreative — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:27:58 +0000

The Power of Social Norms in Reducing Veteran Suicides – Part I April 18, 2023 The issue of veteran suicides is a critical concern that requires urgent attention. The Department of Veterans Affairs has been implementing various programs and marketing campaigns to prevent suicide among veterans. However, despite these efforts, the number of veteran suicides has been on the rise. In this two-part article series, we will explore the potential of social norms messaging as an alternative approach to reducing veteran suicides. Understanding Veteran Suicides: Contributing Factors, VA Efforts, and the Pandemic’s Toll The rates of veteran suicides in the U.S. are alarmingly high and have been for several years. According to the VA’s recent statistics, an average of 17 veterans die by suicide every day, which translates to roughly one suicide every 84 minutes, and it is more than twice the rate of suicides among the general population. Furthermore, the suicide rate among female veterans has increased by over 85% between 2001 and 2018, and the suicide rate among veterans aged 18 to 34 has increased by nearly 76% between 2005 and 2018. There are many factors that contribute to the increased rates of veteran suicides, including the experience of trauma during military service, difficulty transitioning back to civilian life, access to firearms, substance abuse, and the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help. Although the VA has implemented various programs and initiatives aimed at reducing veteran suicides, the continued high rates suggest that these efforts may not be enough. The VA’s initiatives to address the issue of veteran suicides include the Veterans Crisis Line, which is a free, confidential resource that connects veterans and their families with trained responders who can provide crisis counseling and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The VA has also established suicide prevention coordinators at each of its medical centers to identify at-risk veterans and connect them with appropriate resources. Additionally, the VA has partnered with other organizations to share information and resources to address veteran suicide and has launched several public awareness and prevention campaigns, including the “Be There” campaign and the “REACH VET” initiative. The COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated the problem of veteran suicides by creating new challenges for mental health care providers and may exacerbate existing mental health conditions among veterans. Research has shown that individuals who experienced financial insecurity, social isolation, and a lack of access to healthcare were at a particularly high risk of experiencing mental health challenges during the pandemic. Overall, the VA continues to face challenges in reaching veterans who may be at risk for suicide, particularly those who may be reluctant to seek help or who are not connected to VA services. This article will explore new approaches and interventions to address the issue of veteran suicides and improve access to mental health care for veterans. Rethinking Veteran Suicide Prevention Strategies Despite the various resources and prevention campaigns implemented by the VA, the rates of veteran suicide have continued to rise. One major issue with the current approach is that it relies heavily on individual-level interventions, such as counseling or medication. While these interventions can be effective, they often do not address the underlying social and structural factors that contribute to veteran suicides, such as social isolation, economic insecurity, and lack of access to healthcare. In addition, traditional prevention campaigns often focus on increasing awareness of mental health issues and encouraging help-seeking behaviors. However, research has shown that these campaigns may not be effective in changing behavior, especially among populations that are already reluctant to seek help. This is where alternative approaches, such as social norms messaging, may be more effective. Social norms messaging is a communication strategy that aims to change people’s perceptions of what is normative and acceptable behavior by highlighting the actual behaviors of their peers. For example, if veterans believe that seeking help for mental health issues is stigmatized or shows weakness, social norms messaging can counteract this by highlighting the fact that many of their peers are seeking help and that this behavior is actually normative and acceptable. Social norms messaging can also be used to target specific populations or subgroups of veterans, such as those who are at higher risk for suicide due to their age, gender, or military experiences. Understanding Social Norms and Behavior Social norms are the unwritten rules that dictate behavior within a society or group. They are a shared set of beliefs, values, and expectations that determine how people should act, what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior, and the consequences of certain actions within a particular social context. Social norms play a critical role in shaping human behavior as individuals tend to conform to socially acceptable behaviors and attitudes within their communities. This conformity arises from the social pressure to fit in and be accepted by others. Individuals may fear rejection, criticism, or social exclusion if they deviate from these norms. For example, in some cultures, talking with one’s mouth full during a meal may be considered impolite, and violating this norm may lead to social disapproval or embarrassment. Similarly, norms around drinking, drug use, or suicide can influence whether individuals engage in these behaviors and shape perceptions of these behaviors as acceptable or unacceptable. The influence of social norms extends to how individuals perceive and respond to suicidal ideation and help-seeking behaviors. Some cultures and communities attach a social stigma to discussing mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, leading individuals to conceal their struggles and make it difficult for them to seek help. Conversely, in other cultures or communities, discussing mental health issues is more acceptable and can result in better outcomes and earlier interventions. In military and veteran communities, several prevalent social norms related to suicide and help-seeking can contribute to a reluctance to seek help for mental health issues and suicidal thoughts. One such norm is the belief that seeking help for mental health issues is a sign of weakness, making it challenging for service members

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