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Mental Wellness Resources
The term “mental health” tends to be heard more frequently in conversations, but what exactly is it? Mental health refers to one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Poor mental health can impact one’s ability to cope with everyday stressors and function at their true potential. Some disorders which may affect one’s mental health include anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and many more.
Fortunately, there are resources for those who might be facing mental health concerns and need help. While we are not able to recommend or endorse one resource over another, as each student will have their own needs and preferences, below are some resources that may help in the event you, or a friend or a family member, need support. Please note, these resources are not meant to be a substitute for medical treatment or advice. Additional resources not mentioned below may be found online or with the help of a healthcare provider. If you or someone you know is at risk of harm, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Are you an APUS student? If so, you have access to Mental Health Services through the University.
If you have questions regarding disability services accommodations (DSA) at APUS, please contact the DSA Office at [email protected]. Information regarding the DSA process may also be found in the Student Handbook.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC recognizes that mental health is an important factor when it comes to one’s overall health, no matter their stage in life. The CDC’s mental health page provides opportunities to learn more about mental health and the many mental illnesses or disorders individuals face. In addition, their tools and resources encompass diverse populations and they also provide a mental health quiz to identity mental health facts from myths.
Mental Health America
Mental health conditions should be addressed not only when at critical points, but proactively as well. Mental Health America follows this philosophy in their commitment to promoting the mental wellness of all Americans through providing prevention and identification resources. Their website includes ideas to live life mentally healthy and mental wellness tools such as online screening tools and stress tests.
Mental Health First Aid
As the importance of mental health gains awareness, the amount of resources may seem overwhelming at times. Mental Health First Aid has compiled resources and organized them based on categories such as depression and suicidal intentions, anxiety disorders, help lines, and support groups to name a few. Each resource includes a short description regarding the organization and relevant links to find the resource that may best suit your needs.
Military OneSource
Military OneSource realizes that the mental health of service members and their families is just as important as one’s physical health. Their mental health page has a wide array of resources specifically for military affiliated individuals facing mental health concerns. Some of these include the Military Crisis Line, TRICARE information, and resources from the US Department of Veteran Affairs.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
The National Alliance on Mental Illness is a nonprofit organization that focuses on education and support of those affected by mental illness. Their website offers support resources in the forms of education classes and support groups, as well as resources for specific populations such as military, law enforcement and LGBTQ communities.
National Institute of Mental Health
Each individual facing mental health concerns may find one resource to meet their needs better than another. The National Institute of Mental Health provides a wide variety of options for individuals who need help including crisis lines, ways to approach treatment options, and educational resources such as brochures and statistics to learn more about mental disorders.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
After a disaster, stress, anxiety, and other depression like symptoms are common reactions. SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline is open 24/7, 365 days a year, to assist those who might need crisis counseling in response to a natural or human caused disaster. Their staff is available to provide counseling services and support, as well as refer individuals to local resources for additional follow up care. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 or view additional information at SAMHSA's website.