Mental health is an essential part of the health and well-being of individuals and communities. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Erie County Department of Mental Health, Erie County Department of Health and Crisis Services are calling on the community to unite in support of mental health, reminding residents: “We Are All in This Together.”
“We want to reinforce the idea that connections with other people sustain us during times of uncertainty, trauma, grief and the stresses of everyday life,” said Erie County Commissioner of Mental Health Sarah Bonk. “Those connections have two sides: one, where people who may be struggling feel comfortable enough to reach out for help. The other side depends on all of us having the awareness and resolve to be a source of support for our family members, friends, neighbors and coworkers.”
“Checking in on each other is an essential first line of mental health defense that we should get in the habit of doing every day. That practice can make changes in another person’s behavior or emotional state easier to recognize,” continued Bonk. “And our public health and mental health resources will keep educating on how to offer practical support and make a connection with professional resources if needed.”
Ways to offer support
(adapted from SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
- Express your concern and support
- Remind your friend or family member that help is available and that mental health problems can be treated
- Reassure your friend or family member that you care about them
- Offer to help your friend or family member with everyday tasks
- Include your friend or family member in your plans—let them know you are thinking about them.
“Job loss, financial troubles and debt, unstable housing, food insecurity, social isolation, substance use and other serious or chronic medical conditions – these are common situations that can overwhelm and leave people living in crisis mode,” said Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. “Mental health has parallels with physical health. Some people can manage a health condition without the need for treatment and with no disruption to their activity; other people – most of us – can benefit from support.”
“We have the capacity and the responsibility to watch out for each other, to prioritize meaningful conversations, and to have empathy for the people in our lives,” said Crisis Services President and CEO Jessica Pirro. “Stigma around mental health conditions, barriers to mental health treatment and care, and perceptions that a person can ‘tough it out’ can lead to unnecessary and preventable suffering. Sharing reminders during Mental Health Awareness Month about the resources available to individuals can help keep this topic at the top of mind for our community.”
Mental Health Resources
9-8-8: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Local line: (716) 834-3131
Confidential 24/7 hotline that connects to local resources through Crisis Services. Options for veterans and military, LGTBQ, and languages other than English. Access a confidential text chat line through crisisservices.org/chat, Monday-Friday, 3-11 p.m.
WNY Law Enforcement Helpline – 24/7 confidential peer assistance: (716) 858-COPS
Law Enforcement, first responders, dispatchers, families
Spectrum CARES (Crisis and Re-Stabilization Emergency Services): (716) 882-HELP [4357]
24/7 phone support for children and families in crisis
Erie County Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs: (716) 858-1920
Supports coordination of care for children and youth (birth through age 21 years) who have a serious or chronic medical, physical, behavioral, emotional or developmental condition.
Erie Path (erie.gov/eriepath)
Free app and web site that helps parents and caregivers address the mental and behavioral health challenges faced by children and adolescents; includes resources for adult mental and behavioral health services, information for housing, employment, childcare, food pantries, medical care, social services and senior services that can benefit adults and caregivers.
Mental Health First Aid Training for Organizations | Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH)
Erie County Office of Health Equity: Mental Health Allies (printable resources): https://www3.erie.gov/health/sites/www3.erie.gov.health/files/2024-03/mentalhealthalliesenglish.pdf
