Here are some ways to support yourself and our community to help reduce stigma, educate, and spread awareness:
Go outside and make connections with your neighbors
Research shows that relationships with your neighbors improve overall mental health and sense of well-being. Spread Kindness. Share news that is yours to share, especially on social media.
Take a class
Learn how to recognize the signs of suicide and respond appropriately:
Got five minutes?
View a short online tutorial on suicide prevention: https://www.take5tosavelives.org/take-5-steps
Help fight stigma
Stigma is the biggest barrier to people seeking help. Mental health care is health care for your brain. Let’s make social media work FOR our collective mental health by sharing positive mental health messages.
Share and normalize the conversation. Here are some good places to start: 28 Instagram Accounts That Destigmatize Mental Health
Cope Notes
Do you know someone who would benefit from receiving daily mental exercises, encouragement, psychology facts, and more, sent straight to your phone when you least expect it? Get a week’s free trial of Cope Notes
Find Your Anchor
Send a box of hope to someone who needs it. Or order one for your someone in your community. Click to learn more on this lifesaving project: Find Your Anchor
Become a Crisis Text line volunteer counselor
Crisis Text Line is the free, 24/7 text line for people in crisis in the United States. The service is powered by volunteer Crisis Counselors who work remotely—anywhere with a computer and secure internet connection works.
Crisis Counselors answer texts from people in crisis, bringing them from a hot moment to a cool calm through active listening, collaborative problem solving, and safety planning.
Become a Volunteer – Crisis Text Line
Start The Conversation With A Card – Bring Change to Mind
Download a FREE card you can send or text to a friend or loved one.