Question 1

How Can I Join?

Accepted Answer

To join our program, simply sign up on our website and gain access to a wealth of resources designed to help you build emotional resilience and express yourself through storytelling. Our platform offers a variety of tools, including articles, infographics, journal prompts, and mindfulness exercises, to support your mental health journey.

Question 2

What Resources Are Available?

Accepted Answer

We provide a wide range of resources to assist you in your mental health and storytelling endeavors. From insightful articles to engaging infographics, thought-provoking journal prompts, and calming mindfulness exercises, our toolkit is designed to cater to your emotional well-being and creative expression.

Question 3

How Can I Benefit from the Youth Blog?

Accepted Answer

The youth blog is a space where you can share your stories, connect with other students, and explore different perspectives on mental health. By engaging with the blog, you can gain insights, inspiration, and a sense of community that can positively impact your mental well-being.

Question 4

What should I do if I or someone I know is thinking about suicide?

Accepted Answer

Call or text 988 (https://988lifeline.org/)– Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (https://988lifeline.org/)for 24/7 support. In immediate danger, call 911.(https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/supp_info/behavioral-health/cdph-suicide-prevention-initiative/mental-health-crisis-resources-in-chicago.html)

Question 5

What are warning signs of suicide in teens?

Accepted Answer

• Talking about death or feeling hopeless 
 • Withdrawing from friends
 • Giving away possessions 
 • Self-harm

Learn more signs at NAMI - Warning Signs.(https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Warning-Signs-and-Symptoms)

Question 6

How can I talk to someone who may be suicidal?

Accepted Answer

Be direct: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
Stay calm, listen, and avoid judgment.
Find more tips at American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.(https://afsp.org/)

Question 7

Are there 24/7 local crisis services in the Southland?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Call or text 988,(https://988lifeline.org/) or visitNAMI South Suburbsf(https://www.namisouthsuburbsofchicago.org/crisis-hotlines)or crisis hotlines.

Question 8

What can I expect when I contact 988?

Accepted Answer

You’ll connect to a trained counselor who will:

• Ask how you’re feeling 
 • Help assess danger 
 • Offer coping tools 
 • Connect you with local help

More info: 988 FAQs (https://988lifeline.org/faq/)

Question 9

Is it okay to ask someone if they’re thinking about suicide?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Asking won’t "put the idea in their head"—it shows you care and can save a life. Learn more at Seize the Awkward.(https://seizetheawkward.org/)

Question 10

What do I do if someone says they have a plan to end their life?

Accepted Answer

Stay with them. Remove harmful objects. Call 988 or 911immediately.

Question 11

How can I support someone after a suicide attempt?

Accepted Answer

Be patient. Listen. Encourage follow-up care. Consider helping them make a Safety Plan.(https://sprc.org/resources/stanley-brown-safety-plan/)

Question 12

How can I find a therapist or counselor?

Accepted Answer

Use: 
 • 7 Cups (https://www.7cups.com/)(24/7 free online chat support) 
 • FindTreatment.gov (https://findtreatment.gov/)
 • Ask your school counselor 
 • Try Therapy For Black Girls (https://therapyforblackgirls.com/)or Inclusive Therapists (https://www.inclusivetherapists.com/)

Question 13

Are there free or low-cost mental health services for youth?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Calling or texting 988 (https://988lifeline.org/)is free. NAMI South Suburbs (https://www.namisouthsuburbsofchicago.org/crisis-hotlines)has crisis hotlines that are also free. Also, the Chicago Department of Public Healthfacilitates (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/supp_info/behavioral-health/mental_health_centers.html)no-cost support for emotional, traumatic or behavioral difficulties at community mental health centers. Learn more here.(https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/onechifam/home/children-teens/teen-support-care.html)

Question 14

Can I get mental health care without my parents' permission?

Accepted Answer

In Illinois, youth age 12+ can get outpatient therapy without parental consent (up to 8 sessions). See Consent Laws (IHA).(https://www.team-iha.org/getmedia/73752c63-f0d6-496b-8d01-c5d58d9edef2/consent-by-minors-for-medical-treatment-january-20.pdf.aspx)

Question 15

Where can LGBTQ+ youth get help?

Accepted Answer

• Center on Halsted (https://www.centeronhalsted.org/)– LGBTQ+ youth drop-in & mental health 
 • Trevor Project (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/)(Call 1-866-488-7386 or text "START" to 678-678)

Question 16

What school-based resources can I use?

Accepted Answer

Many schools offer:

• Social workers 
 • Crisis counselors 
 • Partnerships with mental health organizations

Ask your school counselor or wellness team.

Question 17

What are signs of mental health conditions in teens?

Accepted Answer

• Problems with concentration, memory, or ability to think clearly 
 • Changes in appetite 
 • Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or worthless 
 • Loss of interest in things that they used to enjoy 
 • Excessive worry 
Learn more at Mental Health America.(https://mhanational.org/resources/know-the-signs-recognizing-mental-health-concerns-in-kids-and-teens/)

Question 18

What’s the difference between stress and a mental health issue?

Accepted Answer

Stress is usually short-term and related to specific events. If symptoms last weeks or interfere with daily life, talk to a professional. Check out Youth Mental Health Quiz (https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/youth/)for a self-assessment.

Question 19

How can I talk to my parent/guardian about mental health?

Accepted Answer

Pick a calm moment. Use “I feel…” statements. Ask for help finding a therapist. Or ask a trusted adult to help you talk to them. See NAMI: How to Talk To My Parents or Guardian (https://www.nami.org/kids-teens-and-young-adults/teens/how-to-talk-to-my-parents-or-guardian/)for more tips

Question 20

What local organizations support youth mental health?

Accepted Answer

• NAMI South Suburbs (https://www.namisouthsuburbsofchicago.org/)
 • Hope For The Day (https://www.hftd.org/)
 • Thresholds Youth Programs (https://www.thresholds.org/programs/youth/)

Question 21

Where can I find peer support groups?

Accepted Answer

NAMI South Suburbs (https://www.namisouthsuburbsofchicago.org/support-groups)provides a variety of peer support groups.

Question 22

Are there any apps that can help with mental health?

Accepted Answer

Try:

• Calm (https://www.calm.com/)– guided meditation 
 • Headspace (https://www.headspace.com/)– mindfulness 
 • MindDoc–(https://minddoc.com/us/en) symptom tracking and self-guided help

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