Description

Mental health remains a silent crisis affecting many men and healthcare professionals, often shaped by stigma, cultural expectations, and the demands of high-pressure environments. “Mental Health & Stigma: Addressing the Silent Crisis Among Men and Healthcare Professionals” is a 60-minute moderated panel discussion designed to bring these important issues into an open, honest, and supportive space.

This session will feature a diverse panel of voices who will explore common mental health concerns impacting men and healthcare professionals, including stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, emotional suppression, and barriers to seeking help. The discussion will also highlight how workplace culture, societal expectations, and professional identity can influence mental health outcomes and access to care.

The primary objective of this panel is to create a safe and meaningful environment where participants can engage in dialogue about mental health challenges without judgment. By addressing stigma directly, the session aims to normalize conversations around mental health, encourage early help-seeking behaviors, and promote peer support and community care.

Attendees will gain insight into:

• Common mental health challenges affecting men and healthcare professionals
• The role of stigma in preventing help-seeking and open communication
• Strategies for fostering supportive environments in personal and professional settings
• The importance of peer support, self-awareness, and early intervention

This conversation is intended for healthcare professionals, students, advocates, and anyone interested in mental health equity and well-being. Together, we aim to break the silence, challenge stigma, and build a culture where mental health is prioritized and openly discussed.

Meet the Panelists

Dr. Pedro Morante

He is  a global health nurse practitioner leader, transformational educator, and entrepreneur. As Clinical Director for Psychup Mental Health Services, he mentors clinicians through evidence-based, trauma-informed care while advancing precision psychiatry, pharmacogenomics as a cornerstone of psychiatric education and practice. He is the Founder and CEO of PASS, an advanced review center that empowers future NPs through strategic exam preparation and mentorship. Widely recognized with international awards, NP Morante continues to shape the future of mental health, nursing education, innovative clinical models, pharmacogenomics and precision psychiatry worldwide.

Dr. Quinton Murry

DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP-BC, works as a primary care provider specializing in geriatrics, seeing patients in the comfort of their own homes, and as a mental health provider, treating adults/teenagers with mental health issues for the Indian Health Services. Dr. Murry received his undergraduate degree in biology from Talladega College. He received his associate degree in nursing from Lawson State Community College. He has a MSN from the University of South Alabama in adult health nursing and a MSN in psychiatric nursing. He later pursued his doctorate of nursing practice with a concentration in psychiatric nursing from the University of South Alabama. His background includes medical-surgical, home health, and mental health care. He is a Major in the United States Air Force Reserve where he works as a nurse educator.

He is also an adjunct professor at JR Young Health Equity Institute. He has completed internships and clinical rotations at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (Houston, TX), Baypointe Behavioral Health Services (Houston, TX), Hinds Behavioral Health Services (Jackson, MS), Border Region Behavioral Health Center (Rio Grande, TX), and Turning Point Psychiatry (Houston, TX). He has been a nurse for 18 years and a nurse practitioner for 13 years. He is a member of the Tabernacle Praise of Family Worship Center located in Houston, TX. Additionally, he is a lifetime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. where he also serves as the chaplain for the Tau Pi Lambda Chapter. Dr. Murry is an advocate for mental health and encourages men to take care of others by first taking care of themselves.

Eric Taylor

MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in primary care, critical care, hepatology, telehealth, leadership, and men’s health advocacy. He received his Diploma in Practical Nursing from H. Council Trenholm Technical College, Associate of Science in Nursing from Troy State University, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Auburn University at Montgomery where he was recognized in Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. He was later inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing and became affiliated with the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses as a CCRN alumnus.

Mr. Taylor later earned his Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama, completing the Family Nurse Practitioner Program, and is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. At the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, he has served in numerous clinical and leadership roles, including MICU Critical Care Registered Nurse, Primary Care and GI/Hepatology Nurse Practitioner, APRN Council Chair, Lead Home Telehealth Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Utilization Management Advisor. He also served as NP Faculty within the VA’s Primary Care Center of Excellence, one of only seven nationally and adjunct clinical faculty at University of Texas Health Science Center Cizik School of Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner Program Houston.

In addition to numerous presentations and research initiatives, Mr. Taylor is the founder of Pryority Male, a platform dedicated to advancing men’s health awareness, prevention, education, and early intervention.

Dr. Demetrius Kirk (Moderator)

DNPc, MBA, MSN, RN, LNHA, LSSGB, PAC-NE, QCP, Demetrius Kirk is a seasoned healthcare executive and respected thought leader, known for his deep understanding of post-acute care, operational excellence, and leadership development. With over 15 years of experience—from Certified Nursing Assistant to C-suite—Demetrius brings a grounded, no-nonsense perspective to the most complex issues in healthcare.

As a Registered Nurse, Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and national consultant, Demetrius has supported organizations across the country in achieving compliance, improving outcomes, and building stronger teams. He knows how healthcare really works—at every level.

When hosting or moderating, Demetrius brings sharp insight, authenticity, and an ability to create real dialogue. His style is energetic but grounded, ensuring conversations stay relevant, respectful, and deeply engaging. Whether facilitating panel discussions or guiding an audience through a multi-speaker program, he keeps the conversation focused, the energy high, and the takeaways clear.

If you're attending a session led by Demetrius, expect more than introductions—expect meaningful discussion, pointed questions, and a room that stays locked in from start to finish.