Supporting Your Mental Health and Emotional Wellness: Tips and Resources

Dear Mr. John xxxxxx,

As your Congresswoman, I’m committed to ensuring that every member of the FL-20 community has access to the proper resources and support to protect their mental health. As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to pass along resources designed to support and preserve mental and emotional wellness and ensure that you and your loved ones live happy and healthy lives.

By prioritizing mental health, we can build a stronger, more resilient district where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for being an integral part of our community. Together, we can continue to support each other and promote mental well-being for all.

See below for a list of mental health resources. For a list of Florida-based and FL-20 resources, visit my website here. 

Sincerely,

 

 


 
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
Member of Congress

If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or dial 911 in case of emergency.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:
●     Call or text 988
●     Chat 988lifeline.org
●     TTY users, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 988

NAMI Helpline

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline:
●     Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) 
●     Email [email protected]
●     Visit nami.org/help  

Emotional wellness is the ability to successfully handle life’s stresses and adapt to change and difficult times. It is a critical aspect of not only your mental health but your entire physical health.

Below is a list of six strategies that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends you implement to improve your emotional wellness and health.

Strategy #1: Build Resilience

Experts say people who are emotionally well have fewer negative emotions and are able to bounce back from difficulties faster. This quality is called resilience. Learning healthy ways to cope and how to draw from resources in your community can help you build resilience.

Strategy #2: Reduce Stress

Everyone feels stressed from time to time. Stress can give you a rush of energy when it’s needed most. But if stress lasts a long time—a condition known as chronic stress—those “high-alert” changes become harmful rather than helpful. Learning healthy ways to cope with stress can also boost your resilience.

Strategy #3: Get Quality Sleep

We often sacrifice sleep to fit in everything we want to do in our day. But sleep affects both mental and physical health. It’s vital to your well-being. When you’re tired, you can’t function at your best. Sleep helps you think more clearly, have quicker reflexes and focus better. Take steps to make sure you regularly get a good night’s sleep.

Strategy #4: Strengthen Social Connections

Social connections might help protect health and lengthen life. Scientists are finding that our links to others can have powerful effects on our health—both emotionally and physically. Whether with romantic partners, family, friends, neighbors, or others, social connections can influence our biology and well-being.

Strategy #5: Cope With Loss

When someone you love dies, your world changes. There is no right or wrong way to mourn. Although the death of a loved one can feel overwhelming, most people can make it through the grieving process with the support of family and friends. Learn healthy ways to help you through difficult times.

Strategy #6: Be Mindful

The concept of mindfulness is simple. This ancient practice is about being completely aware of what’s happening in the present—of all that’s going on inside and all that’s happening around you. It means not living your life on “autopilot.” Becoming a more mindful person requires commitment and practice. Things like yoga, meditation, daily walks, and breathing exercises can all help you be more mindful. 

A list of additional mental health resources that are available to you.

Crisis Text Line

Crisis Text Line:
•      Text "HOME" to 741741
•      Visit crisistextline.org

Veterans Crisis Line

Veterans Crisis Line:
•     Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1
•     Text 838255

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline:
•      Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
•      Email [email protected]
•      Visit samhsa.gov