Dentist appointment-check. Doctor well visit-check. Eye exam-got it. Mental health assessment-ummm… While mental health discussions have gradually become less stigmatized, many of us check out when it comes to this crucial part of our well-being. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and the perfect time for all of us to check-in with ourselves and our loved ones.
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
Take the Moment
Mental Health Awareness Month is a cornerstone of addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is one organization that actively participates in this national movement, dedicated to eradicating stigma, extending support, fostering public education and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness.
This year, NAMI is celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month with the Take the Moment campaign. They encourage us to “join in fostering open dialogues, cultivating empathy and understanding.” They also urge us to share our resources to support individuals and families on their journey towards mental wellness including:
- NAMI Basics: A six-session education program for parents, caregivers and other family members who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms.
- NAMI Family-to-Family: A free, eight-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions.
- NAMI Family & Friends: A free 90-minute or four-hour seminar that informs people who have loved ones with a mental health condition how to best support them.
- NAMI Homefront: A free, six-session program for families, caregivers and friends of military members and veterans with mental health conditions. Plus, find free online resources available 24/7.
- NAMI In Our Own Voice: Free presentations that provide a personal perspective of mental health conditions, as leaders with lived experience talk openly about what it’s like to have a mental health condition.
- NAMI Peer-to-Peer: A free, eight-session educational program for adults with mental health conditions who are looking to better understand themselves and their recovery.
- NAMI Support Groups: NAMI support groups are peer-led and offer participants an opportunity to share their experiences and gain support from other attendees.
NAMI has also compiled a Tool Kit in order to support NAMI State Organizations, NAMI Affiliates, partners and ambassadors in efforts to promote Mental Health Awareness Month. This toolkit contains insights on this campaign, downloadable graphics, and information on mental health resources.
Engaging in Discussion About Mental Health
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), also believes in the vital role that mental health plays in our overall health. They are celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of understanding best practices for engaging in discussion about mental health.
SAMHSA has developed a conversation guide to support a friend or loved one by providing them with access to services for mental health or substance use. This guide helps start conversations respectfully and helps guide the friend or loved one to resources that could help.
Start a conversation about mental health when there is an open window of time to have an in-depth discussion, and neither you or the person you’re talking to will have to cut the conversation short to take care of other obligations. Plan to set aside at least 30 minutes to an hour.
Start With A Text If A Face-To-Face Talk Is Too Intimidating.
It could be a plain old text message with a note that says, “I have some important things on my mind and need to make time to talk to you about them.”
Find & Share Info.
Find important information online that might help you explain what you’re going through. Print it and bring it with you when you’re ready to talk.
Take The Youth Screen At Mhascreening.Org.
Print out your results to share with the person you plan to talk to.
Dial or text 988 if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis and get connected to a trained crisis counselor at no charge 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Crisis counselors listen empathetically and without judgment. Your crisis counselor will work to ensure that you feel safe and help identify options and information about mental health services in your area.
If you think you may need help but are not in crisis, talk to your medical provider. If you do not have a medical provider, the Tuscarawas County Health Department welcomes new patients 12 and older.
Call 330-343-5555, ext. 1810 to make an appointment.
