Addiction Professionals of North Carolina Awarded Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health Excellence

APNC Earns Gold Bell Seal for Mental Health

On October 10, 2025, marking World Mental Health Day, the Addiction Professionals of North Carolina (APNC) proudly received the prestigious Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health from Mental Health America (MHA). This honor reflects APNC's unwavering dedication to fostering a workplace environment that promotes mental wellness, combats stigma, and empowers its employees to thrive.

Understanding the Gold Bell Seal

The Gold Bell Seal is a distinguished national certification provided by MHA that acknowledges employers who excel in supporting the mental well-being of their employees. The evaluation process considers four essential areas, namely:

1. Workplace Culture: Assessing how norms, leadership, and inclusivity contribute to mental health support.
2. Benefits: Ensuring adequate access to mental health care and associated services.
3. Compliance: Reviewing policies, accommodations, and legal protections related to mental health.
4. Wellness Initiatives: Focusing on prevention, training, and supportive programs aimed at mental health.

Achieving a Gold level seal is an impressive feat, with only 40% of applicants successfully earning this recognition. APNC's commitment to workplace mental health sets a remarkable standard for the industry, positioning them as a role model for others in behavioral health.

The Importance of Employee Mental Health

Sara Howe, CEO of APNC, emphasizes, "In this field, we recognize that promoting mental health is foundational to our mission. When our staff feels secure, valued, and supported, they are more engaged in their work. This approach not only aids in recovery-friendly practices but establishes a benchmark for our members and communities in supporting mental health."

By embedding evidence-based mental health practices into their organizational structures, APNC reinforces the advocacy they promote externally, making behavioral health and recovery integral to their workplace culture and policies.

Dual Designation and Advocacy

Further highlighting its commitment, APNC has also secured designation as a Recovery Friendly Workplace under the state’s Recovery Friendly NC initiative. This complements the Gold Bell Seal, reinforcing their dedication to reducing stigma and assisting employees who have experienced recovery. Together, these accolades send a powerful message that the policies APNC implements internally are in alignment with its wider advocacy goals.

Looking Ahead

The receipt of the Gold Bell Seal is not merely an endpoint but serves as a stepping stone. APNC plans to continue adjusting and enhancing its mental health support systems over time. Externally, this achievement will be used as a public showcase of best practices, encouraging organizations across North Carolina and beyond to take similar strides.

APNC invites other employers, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations to evaluate their workplace policies regarding mental health, recovery accommodations, and stigma reduction. By applying for the Gold Bell Seal themselves, these entities can contribute to a broader mission of making workplaces healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable.

About Addiction Professionals of North Carolina (APNC)

The Addiction Professionals of North Carolina is a professional trade association representing substance use professionals and providers within the state. APNC serves as a collective voice for its members while advocating for effective policies, providing technical support, and fostering collaboration across the industry. Their focus is also on empowering the behavioral health workforce through education and innovative programs aimed at enhancing the health and wellness of North Carolina residents. For further details, visit apnc.org.