May Is Mental Health Awareness Month [Video]

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/warning-signs-and-symptoms/ , an estimated 43.8 million American adults suffer from mental illness each year. Some symptoms of depression are easy to spot, such as feeling excessively sad or low, excessive worrying or fear, changes in eating habits, and thinking about suicide among many others. 988 is a mental health hotline that has 24-hour assistance. The hotline is also free and confidential.

Your Life Iowa is another mental health resource that can help callers resolve substance abuse issues, gambling issues, and assist with mental health or suicidal thoughts. They can contacted 24/7 at 855-581-8111.

There is also a plethora of local mental health agencies that can be found in Jefferson County. These include Optimae Behavioral Health, River Hills Behavioral Health Clinic, SIEDA Behavioral Health and Treatment Services, Southern Iowa Mental Health, and Jefferson County Health Mental Health. Their …