What Have You Noticed?
+ 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
+ I am starting to notice that they are not okay
The most important thing that you can offer to someone in need is your support. There are many local support groups who offer mental health services and programs.
Check out Cairnconnection and Fresh Hope
What To Do
Encourage them to use the tools in their mental toolbox to cope with the way that they are feeling. Help them brainstorm about what they can do when a trigger comes up, in order to comfort themselves and keep their reactions from feeling out of control. Without doing the work for them, share some tools that have worked for you in the past, plus any ideas you have learned from others to help them create an action plan when they are feeling like they are not okay.
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
You can learn new tools by attending workshops and lectures, reading self-help books, and talking to a health care provider and other people who experience similar symptoms.
+ I think they are in crisis. How do I help?
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.