Which way best describes how you are feeling?
+ I am here to learn more about mental health
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, social and overall well-being.
Many factors can contribute to a mental health disorder, including:
- Biological factors- such as genes or brain chemistry
- Life experiences- such as trauma or abuse
- Family history of mental health problems
Mental Health disorders are common and help is available. To learn more, visit: mentalhealth.gov
If symptoms persist, consider seeking advice from a mental health professional.
+ I am starting to feel like I am not okay
Triggers are external events or circumstances that may produce very uncomfortable emotional or psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety, panic, discouragement, despair, or negative self-talk. Reacting to your triggers is normal, but if we don't recognize them and respond to them appropriately, they may actually cause a downward spiral, making us feel worse. Some examples:
- the anniversary dates of losses or trauma
- frightening news events
- too much to do, feeling overwhelmed
- family friction
- the end of a relationship
- spending too much time alone
- being judged, criticized, teased, or put down
- financial problems, getting a big bill
- physical illness
- sexual harassment
- being yelled at
- being around someone who has treated you badly
- certain smells, tastes, or noises
What To Do
Recognizing our triggers is step one to learning how to cope with the way that we are feeling. Brainstorm about what you can do when a trigger comes up, in order to comfort yourself and keep your reactions from feeling out of control. Think about the tools that have worked for you in the past, plus ideas you have learned from others, and store them in your mental toolbox.
Examples
- make my bed
- complete everything on my daily to-do list
- talk to my therapist or someone I trust and ask them to listen while I talk through the situation
- meditate
- journal
- exercise
- read self-development books
- pray
If you are triggered, practice these tools and find what works best for you. Eventually, these coping skills will become automatic. You can learn new tools by attending workshops and lectures, reading self-help books, and talking to your health care provider and other people who experience similar symptoms.
+ I am in crisis
If the situation is potentially life-threatening, dial 911 for immediate emergency services, available 24 hours a day.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or Live Online Chat. If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your call is confidential, toll-free and goes to the nearest crisis center in the Lifeline national network. These centers provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals.
SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline
1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727) for general information on substance abuse and mental health services in your area available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.