Carol Meade has dedicated her career to helping others navigate life’s toughest challenges, from directing behavioral health services at St. Luke's in Cedar Rapids to implementing transformative programs for healthcare workers. In this inspiring conversation, Carol shares her journey, the lessons learned from her work, and the importance of creating environments where everyone—from patients to caregivers—feels valued and supported.

From Iowa Roots to a Career in Behavioral Health

Carol’s path began in Eastern Iowa, where she grew up on a farm near Williamsburg. After earning her master’s degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis, she started her career at St. Luke’s, a place she describes as an exceptional environment to grow professionally and personally.

"I wanted to be in a field where I felt like I was making a difference and helping people," Carol reflects. Her early work involved supporting children and families, and over time, she transitioned into leadership roles.

The Challenges and Rewards of Behavioral Health

As the Director of Behavioral Health Services, Carol oversees psychiatric programs for children, adults, and geriatric patients. The work is both demanding and rewarding, requiring a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and resilience.

"Psychiatric nursing is different—you’re not just addressing physical needs; you’re meeting people where they are emotionally and mentally, often at their lowest points," she explains. Despite the challenges, Carol finds immense satisfaction in witnessing patients make progress and reclaim their lives.

Reigniting the Spirit of Caring

One of the programs Carol is most passionate about is Reigniting the Spirit of Caring. Launched during the pandemic, this three-day retreat is designed to help healthcare workers reconnect with their purpose, develop mindfulness, and foster self-care.

"The foundation is caring for yourself—your mind, body, and spirit—so you can better care for your patients and colleagues," Carol shares. The program encourages participants to focus on kindness, curiosity, and what’s within their control while providing practical tools to navigate the pressures of healthcare work.

Breaking Down Stigma

Carol believes that open conversations about mental health are vital to reducing stigma. Over the years, she’s seen a shift in how people discuss their struggles, especially among younger generations.

"When I was in high school, nobody talked about depression or anxiety. Now, young people are much more open about their mental health, which is encouraging because it means they’re more likely to seek help early," she notes.

A Culture of Care

Carol emphasizes that every member of a healthcare team—nurses, maintenance staff, environmental services workers—plays a critical role. She works tirelessly to ensure that all staff feel valued and supported, fostering an environment of mutual respect and collaboration.

"It’s not just about big gestures. Sometimes, it’s the smallest acts of kindness—a warm blanket, a chair for a family member—that make the biggest impact," she says.

The Power of Connection

From mindfulness techniques to emotional intelligence training, Carol’s programs equip healthcare workers with tools to manage stress and build meaningful connections. Her retreats bring together staff from all departments, creating opportunities for learning, understanding, and camaraderie.

"By day three, the participants are laughing, sharing, and building friendships. It’s magic," she says with a smile.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Carol hopes to expand her focus on employee wellbeing, both at St. Luke’s and beyond. She envisions a future where workplaces across industries adopt similar programs to foster compassion, resilience, and support.

"Taking care of our people isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. When our team members feel valued, they’re better able to care for our community," Carol affirms.

Closing Thoughts

Carol Meade’s dedication to behavioral health and caregiver wellbeing is a testament to the profound impact of compassion and leadership. Her work reminds us that even in the most challenging times, small acts of care and connection can make a world of difference.

Carol is hiring Psych Nurses! Click here to check out UnityPoint Health Career Opportunities

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