Let's talk Mental Health

May is mental health awareness month, which is a crucial time to raise awareness and reduce stigma when it comes to mental health. Mental Health should be just as important as your physical health and affect every single person in one way or another. By having more education to better understand mental health, in the future we can hope that mental health will be viewed and treated with the same importance as physical health. Going to therapy should not be frowned upon but encouraged. Going to therapy and talking through one’s mental health struggles can give an individual the tools they need to be successful and grow as a person. Finding healthy outlets, such as finding a new hobby, getting outside, talking to a trusted friend, self-care, exercise, mindfulness, socialize, and unplug from technology just to name a few. Living in a rural community can make finding resources more difficult. There is still access to counseling though online resources, telephone, or through One Health, Behavioral Health at Northern Montana Health Care, Center for Mental Health, and Bullhook Community Health Center. If you are in crisis and want help, call the Montana 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24/7, at 988 Or text “MT” to 741 741. Though the Montana Warm Line is not a crisis line, it can provide support for those struggling with their mental health. This phone line connects those suffering with mental illness to other people in recovery to lift each other up and offer mutual support. It is a way to get someone on the phone, fast, and work through what you are feeling. Reach them at 1-877-688-3377. The Help Center offers trained counselors on their 24-hour crisis line and their 24-hour sexual assault line. Even if you just need someone to talk to or need help finding other resources, you can call for help. Reach them at 406-586-3333.