17 May 2022: Mental Health Awareness Month

May is mental health awareness month. This message is from the Michigan Dept of Health & Human Services:

If we’ve learned anything from the pandemic, it’s that our mental health and physical health go hand-in-hand. We’ve learned, as outlined in Governor Whitmer’s Mental Health Awareness Month proclamation at https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/proclamations/2022/04/29/may-2022-mental-health-awareness-month?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery, that mental health affects how we think, feel and act; how we handle stress; and how we relate to others and make choices. Dr. Debra Pinals, MDHHS Medical Director for Behavioral Health and Forensic Programs, recorded a short video message encouraging us to stop and think about that—and know that help is available if needed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymHvJZm_jh0

One source of help is the MDHHS Stay Well program, which was created in the early days of the pandemic and still offers services and resources to help you manage emotional distress. Here are a few:

* The Stay Well counseling line still provides emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Dial 1-888-535-6136 and wait for the prompt to press “8”. Counseling is free and confidential.

* “Cultivating Joy” video series. Visit Michigan.gov/StayWell and click the black button that says Video Resources. You’ll find a collection of short, animated videos designed to help you rediscover optimism and hope.

* The “Be Kind to Your Mind” discussion group meets weekly on Zoom. Anyone can join for a chance to connect with other Michiganders who’ve been weathering the proverbial COVID storms. Register at https://bit.ly/3PilXrV.

Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help if you’re struggling emotionally. In fact, it can keep serious mental health issues at bay. So, here’s to your health – both mental and physical.