What to do about You or your loved one’s mental health?

Co-authored by Lauren Saternus, SSP, NCSP and Dr K
 
Are you worried about your mental health or is your loved one struggling with mental health issues?

The mental well-being of each one of us is critical to having a positive, more fulfilling experience with the world and the people around us. Stigma and denial can lead us to act against our own self-interests!
 
Here are some steps that can be taken to begin your journey to mental wellness.
 
Being in crisis is not necessary before considering any of the following:

• Talk to a trusted friend or family member – discuss your concerns and issues because it often helps to talk about these matters rather than just thinking about them.
• Share your concerns with your healthcare professional – most family practitioners are equipped with basics of mental health care issues and can provide you referrals.  Schaumburg has a good family counseling center. https://www.villageofschaumburg.com/residents/family-counseling-center
•  Connect with a professional or peer through a hotline 988 – these services are free and great for weekend and nights also as they are manned 24 hours a day
•  Enroll and participate in a mental health support group - Local NAMI chapters have several groups – check out the web link - https://nami.org/Support-Education/Support-Groups/NAMI-Connection  They are free, confidential and informative.
•  Attend educational events hosted by local community groups - the Schaumburg Township Mental Health Committee https://schaumburgtownship.org/events/ - Annual Event Mind Matters is hosted by them on the month of May

 In Schaumburg Township and several surrounding areas, voters collectively approved a referendum to establish a Community Mental Health Board. The new volunteer Board is aimed at improving mental health outcomes for our community by helping to weave together a comprehensive, cohesive system of mental health services in our community.  https://schaumburgtownship.org/our-township/mental-health-board/schaumburgtownship.org/our-township/mental-health-board/
 
It is important to remember that there is no one "right" way to seek mental health support. Everyone's journey to healing and recovery is different and begins at different stages.
 
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness or selfishness - it takes courage to acknowledge and address your mental health and engage in self-care.
 
Websites that we recommend are:
 
https://www.villageofschaumburg.com/residents/family-counseling-center
 
https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29735  - Illinois Mental Health Support
 
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help  - National Institute of Mental Health support page
 
https://nami.org/Support-Education/Publications-Reports/Guides/Navigating-a-Mental-Health-Crisis

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