EVERY day should be mental health awareness day.
NAMI, is a leader in mental health awareness programs and counseling resources.
"What started as a small group of families gathered around a kitchen table in 1979 has blossomed into the nation's leading voice on mental health. Today, we are an alliance of more than 600 local affiliates who work in your community to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need." https://www.nami.org/About-NAMI
Please reach out, do not hold it in. Women/mothers are notorious for doing this. It is not your fault. However, adaptation and challenges over the generations have led many women to feel that have to hold emotions in, in order to stay strong for their families and coworkers. Often times, showing vulnerability, actually makes you stronger!
Same is true for men/fathers. They are conditioned to put on a front and be the breadwinner. Letting go of this stereotype is very healing. Focus on being a human first, then mother/father/child second.
Speaking of children, they are probably our most vulnerable right now. Asking a younger child to express their feelings may be more challenging than talking with a teenager. However, the younger child is probably more open and not as apt to hide their feelings or deny them. Start counseling young. There is zero stigma and it will only help prevent as well as treat many issues your children may be having. Play therapy is best for children ages 3-6/7. Peer/support groups are great for tweens. Suggest going together to speak with someone or on the phone if that is more helpful to start.
Even during these most unique times and under the greatest stress levels, it is NEVER okay to degrade a child in front (or behind) your children. Fear is ruling many adults, such that they are often acting in a manner completely contrary to what they are teaching their children. Don't wait and become "that" parent. Reach out if you need help, otherwise you will take it out on your children and they will emulate you and think it is okay to think/speak negatively of others. Focus on love not fear. Help others and it will help you. Don't obsess over watching the slanted news.
Most importantly, THINK and FEEL before you speak, even now,...ESPECIALLY now!
In good health,
Elisa
PS- Visit these national websites and helpful local resources:
https://www.wellnesscounselingbc.com/
http://www.lightthewaycounseling.com/
https://www.verywellmind.com/best-online-therapy-for-kids-4800984
