News & Announcements

by Hollie Einolf

During these unprecedented times, it is essential to acknowledge, recognize and act on mental distress. While the coronavirus can affect everyone’s mental health, it can be especially impactful for those with mental illness. The increase in loneliness and isolation, as well as fear of contracting the disease can both trigger and worsen symptoms of mental illness including anxiety, obsessive compulsive behavior, loneliness, depression, and traumatic stress. While it can be helpful to limit news consumption, practice self-care, find distractions, and help others, these attempts may not be enough on their own. If you find yourself or a loved one struggling, please use these valuable resources and reach out for help. (Adapted from: https://www.nami.org)

Crisis Text Line – If you are feeling suicidal, depressed, like you want to harm yourself, or just need someone to talk to, you can text 741741 from your phone and an ACTUAL human being will be there
for you. Or call 1-800-273-8255.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – If you feel alone and like you are at the end of your rope,
call this number 1-800-273-8255.

211.org – This website offers resources for those struggling with food, shelter, utilities and more.
Check out the website or dial 211 from your phone.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – This website provides information about ALL mental health and addiction; it has a treatment locator, information about
grants for treatment, and many other resources.

The Compassionate Friends (Supporting Family After a Child Dies) – An organization offering friendship, understanding, and hope to bereaved families that have experienced the death of a child.

TheHotline.org (Domestic Violence) – This website helps define domestic violence and offers opportunities for you to determine if you are in an abusive situation. It also offers resources to get you to safety if you are ready. Click the link or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Domestic Violence Support for Women

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: If you happen to be having any questions
about your own, your friend’s or a family member’s mental health concerns, you can call this number
1-800-950-NAMI (6264) and they will answer questions about the following:

• Symptoms of mental health conditions
• Treatment options
• Local support groups and services
• Education programs
• Helping family members get treatment
• Programs to help find jobs

NA.org – information and resources about the 12-step program Narcotics Anonymous.

Nar-Anon – Resources for loved ones of addicts.

Al-Anon – Resources for loved ones of those struggling with alcohol abuse.

AA.org information and resources about the 12-step program Alcoholics Anonymous.

OA.org – information and resources for the program that helps those who struggle with overeating.

National Eating Disorders Association – Has lots of resources for those who are struggling with an eating disorder, or love someone who is. They have a helpline as well. (800) 931-2237

Gambling Addiction Resources – If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, this site offers information and resources. Gambling Addiction and Recovery

The Military Crisis Line – text-messaging service, and online chat provide free VA support for all Service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, and all Veterans, even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. Text 838255 Call 1-800- 273-8255 and press 1.

Suicide Prevention for Military, Veterans and Support Group

Loving Your Child Through Their Addiction

Postpartum Support International

Chronic & Invisible Illness Support

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Facebook Support Groups

I am not affiliated with any of these groups, I haven’t been a member; I have just searched them out. You will have your own experiences, but I have found it incredibly therapeutic to gain insight from others who share similar experiences. It helps to know you aren’t alone. Feel free to search out your own group to find a community that fits. If you have something to add to this list, something that has helped you out in a time of need, please contact me (heinolf524@yahoo.com) so we can add it here.

Women In Recovery

CLEAN AND SOBER – Addiction Recovery Support Group

Loved ones of Addicts Public Group

Eating Disorder (Anorexia, BED, Bulimia & EDNOS) Recovery Support Group

Grieving the loss of a loved one Support Group

Depression and Anxiety Support

Battle scars survivor led self-harm support group

Bipolar Disorder Support Group – A Global Community

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Bonus Links for Fun

These websites make me happy when I’m feeling down. They don’t know I exist and I’m not affiliated with them in any way. I just wanted to share because I love you.

Goodnewsnetwork.org – For happy, funny, and positive news articles (for a change)

Happy News (Hero Stories) – Cool little articles about everyday heroes!

You’re Getting Old – Enter your birthdate and find out a bunch of fun facts about the day you were born. ‘Cuz why the heck not!

TED – I love going here for insight, strength and inspiration.

Damn You Autocorrect – These just make me so happy for some reason.

Awkward Family photos – enough said.

Pixelthoughts – a really cool 60 second meditation exercise.