It's OK to NOT Feel Okay

 Hello all! As you may know from previous posts, I like to use this blog to highlight the connections between MANY life experiences. As many of us enter into renewed lockdowns, job changes, schooling changes and more, I wanted to share some helpful resources.

It was my honor to work with a stellar mental health organization in the past, Wilshire Community Services. My supervisor there was a therapist who has been great at recognizing the holistic experiences of her employees and the clients served. Traci understands that an individual's medical, community, volunteer and family resources all overlap to impact their mental health. HERE in this video, she shares some practical ways to keep aware of our mental state during these strange times. I appreciated it because it's a shorter video, broken into common questions we ALL probably have right now. 

Another resource I found useful to share these days is this article from LinkedIn, which gives us a quick glimpse of the professional industries experiencing increased stress right now. Educators are right up there! And it's no wonder. Healthcare and Non-Profits are also feeling the squeeze. Imagine all of the industries that have to juggle MULTIPLE responsibilities from home, figure out how to also educate or supervise their kids, pay bills, and stay healthy and/or keep others healthy! 

There is SO much change to navigate right now and a lot to balance. It is more than advisable to keep tabs on our mental health, be vigilant about work-life balance, and implement self-care techniques. Keep up your spiritual and mental fortitude! You matter. And when you care for YOU, then you can care more effectively for others. Exercise, whole foods, vitamin D, C, B-12 and Zinc! ;)

If you need to connect with support and talk to someone, namely a professional, the mental health system is a bit overwhelmed BUT there are apps to talk to therapists over your phone or computer! That list is included HERE. 

There is often a listening ear or counselor through your church or faith community.  Ask about counseling available! 

And there are helplines if you ever feel like you or someone you know is suicidal. Text 741741. OR 

• 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• To chat online with a national suicide hotline counselor, click here: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/

You are never alone.