Mental Health Awareness Month: It’s Always Okay to Ask For Help

holding hands to console

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being in our lives. Established in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize mental and physical health. This month is an opportunity to:

  • Increase awareness: Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and open conversations about mental well-being are essential. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to destigmatize mental health concerns and encourage open communication.

  • Provide resources: SAMHSA, along with countless other organizations, offers a vast network of resources for individuals and communities seeking mental health support.

  • Celebrate recovery: Recovery from mental illness is a real and achievable goal. Mental Health Awareness Month celebrates the resilience and strength of those living with mental health challenges.

You Are Not Alone

Mental Health focuses on the importance of seeking help and the message that it’s okay to not be okay. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, alcoholism, bullying, or any other mental health concern, we want you to know there is a vast network of support available.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Help is readily available: Numerous resources are available, from hotlines and online support groups to mental health professionals and community programs.

  • Seeking help is a sign of strength: Asking for help is not a weakness; it’s a demonstration of courage and a commitment to your well-being.

  • Recovery is possible: With the right support system and resources, recovery from mental illness is a real possibility.

Taking Action on Mental Health 

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we encourage you to:

  • Educate yourself: Learn about mental health conditions, available resources, and ways to promote mental well-being.

  • Talk openly: Have conversations with friends, family, and colleagues about mental health. Open communication can foster understanding and support.

  • Seek help if needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling. A mental health professional can provide invaluable support and guidance.

  • Support others: Encourage those you know who may be struggling to seek help. Let them know they are not alone.

By working together, we can create a society where mental health is valued and prioritized. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and help is always available.

For Immediate Support:

Let’s make mental health a priority every month, not just in May.

Suicide Prevention Resources from Uncas Health District

Check your mental health at Fresh Check Day — Sept. 27 at Three Rivers Community College

teens having fun

On Wednesday, September 27, members of the Uncas Health District team will be heading to CT State Community College Three Rivers (formerly Three Rivers Community College) for Fresh Check Day — an uplifting mental health promotion and suicide prevention event for colleges that includes interactive expo booths, peer-to-peer messaging, support of multiple campus departments and groups, free food, entertainment, and exciting prizes and giveaways.

Fresh Check Day aims to create an approachable and hopeful atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage in dialogue about mental health and helps to build a bridge between students and the mental health resources available on campus, in the community, and nationally.

Goals of Fresh Check Day

  • Increase awareness of mental health resources available to students
  • Reduce stigma and misconceptions around mental health and suicide that often deter individuals from seeking help
  • Empower peers to be gatekeepers by understanding warning signs and knowing what to do if a friend is exhibiting signs of suicide or mental health breakdown
  • Increase willingness to ask for help if experiencing emotional distress

[maxbutton id=”3″ url=”https://freshcheckday.com/” text=”More About Fresh Check Day” ]

September is Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about suicide and its prevention. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and it is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 10-24.

Help is available 24/7:

[maxbutton id=”19″ url=”https://uncashd.org/suicide-prevention/” text=”Suicide Prevention Resources” ]

 

 

 

Suicide Prevention Month: creating hope through action

Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about suicide and its prevention. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and it is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 10-24.

There are many warning signs that someone may be thinking about suicide.

These signs can include:

  • Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
  • Increased alcohol or drug use
  • Changes in mood, such as becoming withdrawn or angry
  • Giving away belongings
  • Making a plan for suicide

If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these warning signs, it is important to take action. Do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Here are some things you can do:

  • Talk to the person about how they are feeling. Let them know that you care and that you are there for them.
  • Encourage the person to seek professional help. Many resources are available, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups.
  • Remove any access to weapons or other means of suicide.
  • Stay calm and supportive. It is important to be patient and understanding.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

There is hope for people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts. With the right help, they can get better and live full and happy lives.

To learn more about suicide prevention, visit the following websites:

Call to action:

  • Talk to your friends, family, and coworkers about suicide prevention.
  • Share resources on suicide prevention on social media.
  • Get involved in a suicide prevention organization in your community.
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