Beyond 'What will the neighbors say?'

Breaking mental health stigma in Farm Country

Colleen Stegenga
Apr 8, 2025
Apr 8, 2025

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When I was growing up in the 80s, my mother's frequent refrain, "What will the neighbors say?” echoed through our household. Whether it was about wearing a dress to church or having my hair perfectly set on rollers the night before, appearances mattered deeply. Staying home from Sunday service? That conversation wasn't even on the table.

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Colleen Stegenga, MSW, LCSW-PIP, QMHP, is a therapist and owner of Embracing Change Counseling Services, with offices in Sioux Falls and Mitchell. Reach her at colleen@embracingchangecs.com or visit www.embracingchangecs.com.