May 2024 – Mental Health Awareness – Members Spotlight

May is Mental Health Awareness Month - Our members shared some great information about this important topic.

In your organization, how does mental health play a role for the people you serve?

Vinceremos has been sharing the benefits of equine assisted therapies with those who are struggling with the challenges associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, abuse and abandonment.  Our programs offer a unique equine/human relationship experience. The horse, his habits, reactions and herd mentality naturally and effectively demonstrate visually respect, communication and confidence. Participants of all ages engage in interactive challenges and unmounted activities to strengthen and build trust, confidence and self-esteem.

Any advice for those who may be struggling with a mental health issue, or know someone who is? 

If you are struggling, don't be afraid to ask for help. Take that very difficult step, it will be worth it!   When someone is struggling they need support. Asking how you can help is better than telling them what to do. If someone comes to you, take the advice of a horse, listen with both ears, just be there!  Then ask, "what can I do to help?"

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, what should individuals and families take extra time to inform themselves about this month?

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which is a perfect time for everyone to prioritize learning about mental health and the effects that it has on individuals and families. Educating ourselves on the signs and symptoms of issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders and other mental health conditions is crucial. Education helps us to recognize potential mental health challenges in ourselves or loved ones. Early recognition is key, allowing for intervention and better treatment outcomes. We should also research ways to act: finding evidence-based mental health care and resources, learning how to support struggling loved ones, and advocating for better access to mental healthcare for all.

In your organization, how does mental health play a role for the people you serve?

At Hanley Foundation, mental health is critical in all aspects of our patient care and the people we serve. We offer a stand-alone Residential Mental Program for adults, separate from our addiction treatment programs. Since substance use disorders often co-occur with mental health conditions, addressing both at the same time is essential for recovery. Additionally, our prevention education programs in schools focus on promoting emotional well-being and building resilience, which can help prevent substance use and other mental health challenges. Finally, our suicide prevention efforts recognize the link between mental health and suicidal ideation. We provide support and resources to help individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts and to promote awareness of mental health issues.

Any advice for those who may be struggling with a mental health issue, or know someone who is?

If you are struggling with a mental health issue, you are not alone. Many people experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives. The important thing is to reach out for help. Here are some resources that can help:

• Hanley Foundation's services, such as substance use treatment, Prevention, the Zero Suicide Initiative, Project HOPE and more: hanleyfoundation.org
• Hanley Foundation offers a residential mental health program for adults, call 844-452-9959 for more information.
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or nami.org
• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or samhsa.gov

If you know someone who is struggling, you can also be a source of support. Listen to them without judgment and encourage them to seek the professional help outlined above.