I’ve already shared much of the wisdom I’ve gleaned from my experiences with anxiety, depression, PTSD and my attempted suicide. If I could impart one more word of advice, it would be this:

There is no shame in asking for help when you are feeling overwhelmed or depressed and don’t know what to do. There is also no shame when there is a need for medication. Unfortunately, I know too many individuals who do not understand that mental illness is a real illness and who refuse to seek treatment of any kind.

One mother of a 19 year old told me her daughter was diagnosed with bipolar and refused to get out of bed. I asked if her daughter was getting any kind of treatment or therapy. She said ‘no’. I asked if she was on any kind of medication. The mother explained that she, the mother, did not believe in medication for such things. She let me know that there was no point in further discussing medication. This left me wondering if this mother believed that mental illness actually exists. I felt nothing short of complete sadness for this young woman. 

Chapter 2 Resources

There are many helpful local and regional organizations that provide targeted support and resources for individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges. Be sure to look online to see what is available in your area. Also, check with your local and state health and human service agencies to find out if there are Certified Peer Support Specialists available in your area to work with you. Here are some helpful national resources. Many have local chapters you can connect with.

National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Learn what to do if you’ve been diagnosed with a mental illness and what it means. You can get support, education and information on a variety of topics including, how and when to disclose, what to do in a crisis, taking care of yourself, navigating finances and work and more. You can also find local chapters where you can take classes, share your story, and meet others who have similar experiences and mental health challenges. 

https://nami.org/Your-Journey/Individuals-with-Mental-Illness

Recovery International.

The mission of Recovery International is to use the cognitive-behavioral, peer-to-peer, self-help training system developed by Abraham Low, MD, to help individuals gain skills to lead more peaceful and productive lives. Recovery International hosts meetings that provide a safe space to receive guidance, fellowship, acceptance, and support from peers with similar problems. All meetings follow the Recovery 4-Step Method that addresses the underlying cause of most symptoms. Through the structured meeting and encouragement from their peers, participants learn to “spot" their angry and fearful temper and use their will-power to manage symptoms and lead productive, healthier lives. This method has helped people learn to identify and manage negative thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors that can lead to emotional distress and related physical symptoms. Most meetings are online. To learn more: https://recoveryinternational.org/newcomer/

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral

Five more mental health resources that can #BeTheDifference when you need it most:



• The National Suicide Prevention Line. This hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7 to people in distress across the United States. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for support.
• The SAMHSA Helpline. SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential information service that provides treatment and support referrals 24/7 to people facing mental illness and addictions. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for support.
• Crisis Text Line. Crisis Text Line provides free, confidential support via text message 24/7 to those in crisis situations. Text HOME to 741741 for support.
• The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project provides free, confidential support 24/7 to LGBTQ youth via a helpline, text and online instant messaging system. Call 1-866-488-7386 for support.
• The Veterans Crisis Line. The Veterans Crisis line provides free, confidential support 24/7 to veterans, all service members and their family and friends in times of need. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 or text 838255 for support