Mental Health Awareness

988 is a Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that was adopted by the FCC on July 16th, 2020.  The purpose of this resource is to connect people in crisis with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors.  You are able to call or text this number for support.  Some of the services provided include Spanish, direct video calling for American Sign Language (ASL) users, and LGBTQI+ affirming counselors.

 

NAMI, the Nation Alliance on Mental Illness, was founded in 1979 as an organization that focuses on education, support, and advocating for mental health.  NAMI prides itself on peer focused support that aims to provide programs for those struggling with mental illness and caregivers alike.  From support groups to education programs, NAMI has a little bit for everyone.

Navigate Hope offers these types on how to be supportive to someone who is experiencing a mental health challenge:

LISTEN:

Let someone really express their experiences. Being someone they can talk to is essential when giving support.

 

BE NON-JUDGMENTAL:

Don’t criticize or minimize the way they feel. You may not be able to understand exactly what they’re going through, and that’s ok.

 

ASK WHAT, NOT WHY:

When you ask questions, avoid asking ‘why’ questions, and instead ask ‘what’ questions. Asking why can have a judgmental tone even if you don’t mean it that way.

 

GIVE INFORMATION – DON’T DIAGNOSE:

Don’t assume they have an illness or condition. Provide direction to resources that can identify and treat mental health issues.

 

ACT AS A BRIDGE:

You can connect someone to mental health resources. Resources include family, school guidance, mental health professionals, and organizations like Navigate Hope.

 

TEAMMATE IN SUPPORT:

Being supportive doesn’t mean your duty is to ‘fix’ someone. Mental health is complicated and solutions aren’t overnight. As a teammate, the best support you can give is by being a trusting ear, helping to navigate resources, and acting as a source of encouragement.

 

Tabono is here to offer support during any stage of your mental health journey. You can reach out to us via our Contact Us page or by contacting us directly at 513-846-5283 to get matched to one of our licensed therapists. We look forward to hearing from you soon!


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