Mental Health Awareness Month
As the flowers bloom and the weather warms, May brings with it a significant focus on mental health awareness. It’s a month dedicated to shedding light on the importance of mental well-being, breaking down stigmas, and encouraging conversations that promote understanding and support.
Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. It encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act . Just as we prioritize our physical health through exercise and nutrition, paying attention to our mental health is equally crucial.
The Impact of Mental Health Challenges
Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other conditions can significantly impact daily life, relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
Breaking Down Stigmas
One of the key goals of Mental Health Awareness Month is to break down stigmas surrounding mental health issues. Stigmas often lead to discrimination, isolation, and reluctance to seek help. By fostering open conversations, sharing personal stories, and providing education, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for those facing mental health challenges.
Promoting Mental Well-being
During Mental Health Awareness Month, there are many ways to promote mental well-being:
- Start Conversations: Talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage discussions that promote empathy and support.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about different mental health conditions, signs, and symptoms. Understanding is key to offering meaningful support.
- Seek Help: If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy, counseling, and support groups can make a significant difference.
- Practice Self-care: Prioritize self-care activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, mindfulness, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.
- Be Kind: Kindness and compassion can go a long way. Offer support, lend an ear, and avoid judgment.
Resources and Support From Society of Care and Beyond
Did you know there may be help right in your communiuty?
Society of Care is committed to being a trauma and resilience resource for self identified Native Youth and their families across Nebraska. Reach out to your local Society of Care Navigator to help you find the resources you need. You can find more resources from our partners below.
All Nations Crisis Text Line
All Nations Crisis Hotline is a text based crisis hotline run by and for Native populations. As of now their services are within the Nebraska Tribes and are staffed by members from the Ponca, Omaha, Lakota and Winnebago Tribes. The All Nations Hotline is thankful to announce that through the gracious financial support of the Society of Care/Santee Sioux Nation, they have Native Agents who have been trained in crisis counseling.
To learn more about the All Nations Crisis Text Line or to reach out if you are in a crisis, visit their website by clicking the button below or text “SUPPORT” to 33464.
Morningstar Counseling and Consultation is a full circle mental health clinic that serves the community by offering care to children, adolescents and adults of all ages. In addition to this, they also partner with several agencies across Nebraska to aid in the training and education of future clinical mental health professionals. To reach out to the Morningstar Counseling team, visit their website by clicking the button below.
Resources From SAMHSA
These resources from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has many resources for both individuals and organizations during Mental Health Awareness Month.
SAMHSA MHA Tool Kit
If you are a business or organization needing materials to promote Mental Health Awareness Month to your employees or audience, this tool kit offers valuable resources and guidance to help you do so.
If you are an indivdual needing support you can find a trove of resources at findsupport.gov. Resources include help finding treatment, how to help others, and options for covering costs with or without insurance, including free and low-cost programs.
You can visit findtreatment.gov to help you locate services in your local area. It is a confidential and anonymous resource for persons seeking treatment for mental and substance use disorders in the United States and its territories.
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
The Journey to Mental Well-being
Remember, the journey to mental well-being is unique for everyone . It’s okay to seek help, take small steps, and prioritize self-care. By fostering understanding, breaking down stigmas, and promoting support, we can create a world where mental health is a priority for all.
This May, let’s continue the conversation, spread awareness, and support each other on the path to mental wellness.
We Are Here To Help
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