MONROE, La. (KNOE) – The month of May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. There are plenty of available resources for those who need help.
“There is hope. Life is difficult right now. There are problems that come at us from all angles, but there is hope,” says Dr. Matthew Thornton, CEO for The Center for Children and Families.
Dr. Thornton explains why it’s important for there to be a month dedicated to spreading awareness.
“Mental health is really about your quality of life and all aspects of your life and your relationships, so mental health impacts your ability to be satisfied with the work that you’re doing to feel that sense of purpose,” says Dr. Thornton.
Doctors say common signs of those struggling with mental health-related issues include a lack of interest in hobbies, sleeping too much, irritability and more.
Dr. Aimee Blackham, licensed counseling psychologist with The Center for Counseling and Psychological Resources in Ruston, says it’s best to check in with the person if you feel they are struggling.
“Sometimes the signs aren’t obvious. That’s the hard part. The most important thing is to directly and openly ask someone how they are doing and ask how you can help,” says Dr. Blackham.
Dr. Blackham says coping skills are an important tool people can use to help take care of themselves.
“Make sure that you’re eating healthy, that you’re getting enough sleep, that you’re getting some exercise, getting outside in nature. Those are some really fundamental things that can help you get out of a slump if you’re struggling,” says Dr. Blackham.
Rachel Dew, licensed professional counselor with Finding Solace, says a person doesn’t have to be at their lowest point to seek mental help. They can look for a counselor if they notice signs.
“Even if you start noticing, ‘Hey, I’m just tired more or I’m more irritable, or I’m not wanting to go out and do things, or the stress is kind of piling up on me,’ those would be great times to go ahead and just seek help,” says Dew.
The National Institute of Mental Health says around one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the eleventh leading cause of death in the U.S. is suicide.
Dew explains how someone can find resources and or the right mental health professional for them.
“We have so many resources in this area. We have tons of licensed professional counselors, and I would also recommend looking at the website Psychology Today and then the local counseling websites to get information on the counselors themselves,” says Dew.
If you are or know anyone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts, call or text 988, or text “Home” to 741-741.
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