May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The Student Leadership Council has planned a series of events this week (May 9-13) to shed light on this important topic.
Mental health is an important aspect of health that all of us need to care for. Mental health impacts each of us in different ways as individuals and throughout our lives. Together, we can create a more supportive environment for everyone.
What can you do to support Mental Health Awareness Week?
- Do something kind for yourself. Taking care of your own mental health is a great first step. Bonus: it also encourages others to do the same.
- Learn more. Take a look at the Mental Health Wellness and Resources Guide is available through the LBCC Library to provide wellness tips along with local information and resources. Visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness website.
- Be aware of 24/7 resources. Save the phone number for the LBCC Mental Health Crisis Line (541) 917-4666 and other 24/7 supports (see below) into your phone – you never know when you or someone you know may need to access immediate support.
- Do something kind for someone else. We may never know the struggles others are facing and a little extra grace, kindness, and compassion can go a long way.
Many of us benefit from sharing our experiences and telling our story with individuals who have earned our trust. If you don’t already have someone like this in your life, counseling is a great place to start in talking about challenging circumstances in a structured and supportive environment.
LBCC Counseling for Students:
The LBCC Advising Center offers free, short-term counseling for students and can provide referral to community resources for longer term or specialized needs. 541-917-4780.
Counseling for Employees:
LBCC has an Employee Assistance Program that covers ALL Employees, including Work Study, CWE, and Learn & Earn student employees. Contact Human Resources for details.
24/7 Resources:
Linn County Mental Health Crisis Line: 800-304-7468
Benton County Mental Health Crisis Line: 888-232-7192
National Suicide Prevention Line: 800-273-8255
Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence (CARDV): 541-754-0110
24/7 Confidential Crisis Counseling Text Line: Text OREGON to 741741
Written by Advising Center Faculty and Columnist Lisa Hoogesteger.