I've tried to be transparent about mine - or lack of sometimes - but figure any info is better than none.
Last year we discussed 9-8-8 which is the Suicide and Crisis Hotline and the role of a psychiatrist and psychologist.
But this is 2026 - and while I think 988 is extremely important, many people don't talk on the phone. Or don't like to. Guilty!
Honestly, save for a few calls per year with one of my sisters and some important things to 710 and my weekly "call" (read: Zoom) with friends, I almost never use my phone for talking to people. Even my shrink is now in person, so that negates any number of calls during the year.
I'm sure there is something newer than 'texting', but I'm an old man who no one has ever been able to clearly describe for me what snapchat is - and why it is. So I can't be bothered with too much new technology. But texting is what happens the most - between family, friends, even to confirm doc appointments.
Anyway - where I'm leading.............
There is a Crisis Text Line that will put those in need in touch with someone who can help.......even with texting.
There is an inherent kind of buffer when relating things via text. I think people say things easier this way than their ability to verbalize. I've been there. Sometimes you don't want to hear some words come out of your mouth - as they might be rooted in shame. But you might type them.
Full disclosure - I've never used 988 or the Crisis Text Hotline. But a post-it with 988 written on it was stuck to my computer monitor in my office for longer than I care to admit.
And Mental Health Awareness Month increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being and provide resources and information to support individuals and communities who may need mental health support.
The Crisis Text Line being one one of those resources.
It's free. It's available at all times. All one has to do is text "hello".
They are there to help, not judge. It might be hard to remember that when it is you texting "hello", but know this to be the truth.
I have insurance to help pay for my support. And I still have to fork over the co-pays. Everyone isn't that privileged. I'm sure there is only so much one can do via text, but I'm also sure they'd be guiding those in need to additional resources, and based on their financial circumstances.
I will continue to be an advocate for those with depression, anxiety and all that go along with them. I am by no means the poster boy for mental hygiene. but I'm trying.
Continually trying.......
