Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Step Up For Mental Health To Educate. Fight Causes. Change minds on Mental Health. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Green Is For May And Youth Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/green-is-for-may-and-youth-mental-health/) - Photo by Unsplash May 1st is the official day of the start of Mental Health Awareness Month, and already so many events have been taking place to spread awareness. Community events such as: Free 5k runs to bring awareness to Mental Health Free Yoga sessions Community events with vendors free food and music Wellness and support - [A Guide to Understanding and Addressing Alcohol Use Disorder (SUD Series)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-guide-to-understanding-and-addressing-alcohol-use-disorder-sud-series/) - Alcohol use disorder is a real illness. Addiction to alcohol does not have to be a life sentence. Victims do not need to suffer alone, help is out there. - [A Guide to Understanding and Addressing Tobacco Use Disorder (SUD Series)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-guide-to-understanding-and-addressing-tobacco-use-disorder-sud-series/) - Tobacco use disorder is the most common substance use disorder. Victims do not need to suffer alone. Learn about recovery, signs, and factors. - [A Guide to Understanding and Addressing Cannabis Use Disorder (SUD Series)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-guide-to-understanding-and-addressing-cannabis-use-disorder-sud-series/) - Cannabis use disorder develops in 3 out of 10 individuals who use the drug. Victims do not need to suffer alone. Learn about recovery, signs, and factors. - [Exploring Identity and Exclusion: The Struggle for Belonging in High School](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/exploring-identity-and-exclusion-the-struggle-for-belonging-in-high-school/) - Kayla Samuels - impact of social exclusion on high school students' mental health and identity and belonging. The Struggle for Belonging in High School - [Hunger, Nutrition, and Health Conference: Supporting Overall Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/hunger-nutrition-and-health-conference-supporting-overall-mental-health/) - Today the Biden-Harris Administration will host the historic White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health — tune in live with Step Up For Mental Health®, starting at 10:30 am CST. You can also join us and share your thoughts and dialogue on how to support families in need and poverty. We will be talking - [Cook County's Inaugural Behavioral Health Summit: Why Peer Support Finally Joins The Table](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/cook-countys-inaugural-behavioral-health-summit-why-peer-support-finally-joins-the-table/) - CHICAGO - Step Up For Mental Health recently had the opportunity to attend Cook County's inaugural Behavioral Health Summit in Chicago, an event that brought together elected officials (Mayor Brandon Johnson, Governor. J. B. Pritzker), clinicians, peer support specialist and facilitators, social service providers, community leaders, and residents to discuss critical issues surrounding access to - [Help Shape the Future of Mental Health Apps for Black and Latine Individuals](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/help-shape-the-future-of-mental-health-apps-for-black-and-latine-individuals/) - Are you tired of mental health apps that don't "get" you? The Research on Anxiety and Depression (R.O.A.D) team at Rowan University is on a mission to change that! The team is conducting a research study to better understand the views of Black/African American and Latino/a/e individuals on culturally adapted mental health apps. What is the - [Media Impact on Mental Health Amid Conflict](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/media-impact-on-mental-health-amid-conflict/) - The world is more interconnected than ever, thanks to the internet and social media. We can now witness events unfolding thousands of miles away from us in real time. With the current war taking place in the Gaza Strip, we are all able to watch the violence as it happens. What are the mental health - [Understanding Communication Styles: Talk-to-Think or Think-to-Talk?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/understanding-communication-styles-talk-to-think-or-think-to-talk/) - Understanding our personal style of communication can provide helpful insights not only into how we can better share our feelings and ideas with others but also how we can set ourselves up for deeper insight. When it comes to how we develop our thoughts, most people fall into one of two categories: think-to-talk or - [Mental Health In The Latine Community and It's Stigma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mental-health-in-the-latine-community-and-its-stigma/) - Many of my Hispanic friends who have mental health issues don't get the help they need because their parents don't believe that their symptoms are real. Mental Health in the Latine community is something they believe to be made up and that your mindset cannot impact your day-to-day life. “Los problemas mentales no son reales” - [Ways to Prioritize Minorities Mental Health Collectively](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ways-to-prioritize-minorities-mental-health-collectively/) - Mental health is an integral component of our overall well-being and is as essential as physical health. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 5 US adults live with a mental illness, and over 1 in 5 youth (ages 13-18) have had a seriously debilitating mental illness either currently or at some point. Many - [Bullies Are Only An Illusion Of Power, Don't Let Them Weaken Your Internal Shield](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/bullies-are-only-an-illusion-of-power-dont-let-them-weaken-your-internal-shield/) - The word bullying can invoke different responses and feelings in people due to their unique situations in a multitude of ways. Although, have we lost touch with what bullies are? The glory that evolves around bullies is quite tragic because, deep down, they are incredibly insecure kids who are projecting their emotions from personal issues - [Coping With Mental Health As A High School Student](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/coping-with-mental-health-as-a-high-school-student/) - Let’s say you’re a high school student whose grades are A’s, B’s, and C's. They're not terrible, but you know you can do better. Luckily, you are in a scholar program that can help you, but they give you homework to do as well. So you take the time to organize your schedule for all - [005 Episode: Mental Talk: The Myth of Deinstitutionalization (Social Justice Series - Part 1 of 4) [Podcast]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/005-episode-mental-talk-the-myth-of-deinstitutionalization-social-justice-series-part-1-of-4-podcast/) - In this episode, we will be discussing the commonly believed notion that the deinstitutionalization of mental health facilities led to the rise of mental illnesses within the homeless population and the prison system. We will disprove this myth by offering alternative explanations for the prevalence of mental illness among people who are homeless or incarcerated - [The Beauty of Using Music Therapy as a Tool for Your Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-beauty-of-using-music-therapy-as-a-tool-for-your-mental-health/) - The beauty in music is truly indescribable. Whether it's the beat that speaks to you or words sparking inspiration in you. Possibly the Chorus or instruments give you a sense of euphoria comparable to a high without drugs. Maybe you're the singer who wrote it or the one who streams it. Unconditionally there is no - [What You Need to Know About Cyberbullying](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-you-should-know-about-cyberbullying/) - In my last article, I wrote about the effects of bullying and shared information on how to stop bullying in any environment. Now I want to share about cyberbullying and how it can affect young people. About 37 percent of young people between the ages of 12 and 17 have been bullied online, according to - [The Effects of Bullying on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-effects-of-bullying-on-mental-health/) - “Why is this important? Bullying doesn't even happen anymore!” These were the words that came out of my peers' mouths after an anti-bullying event took place in our school. It is very important to know that bullying still happens. Even if you don't see it, it doesn't mean it's not there. As many things are - [The Secret to Having Optimal Mental Health When Applying to College](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-secret-to-having-optimal-mental-health-when-applying-to-college/) - The summer season has officially come to a halt. The school year has officially begun, and it’s time to apply to college. Whether it was a summertime sadness, and you streamed Lana Del Rey all summer or had the time of your life. It's officially time to get serious, but not too serious. Not only - [Online Therapy and Its Benefits for Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/online-therapy-and-its-benefits-for-mental-health/) - Is Online Therapy a Good Option? Online therapy can be an effective, affordable, and convenient way to work through mental health matters. Therefore, it can be preventative care for mental health difficulties that appear later, in a post-COVID-19 world. We should start to prepare for the long-term impact that it may have on mental health. - [Gaining Self-love for Teen Girls for Overall Good Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/gaining-self-love-for-teen-girls-for-overall-good-mental-health/) - What defines a beautiful young woman? To me, a beautiful young woman is one with unique features that make her stand out from the crowd, and one with an exquisite personality that's so radiant it illuminates from within the person. So since no person is the same and has unique features or personalities from another, - [5 Ways for People with ADHD to Improve Their Diet](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-ways-for-people-with-adhd-to-improve-their-diet/) - When you’ve been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, your daily diet is one of the important factors in managing your symptoms. What you eat regularly has a major impact on the state of your symptoms. Here are five important ways you can go about maintaining a steady diet that will - [White House Series of Virtual Conversations on the Mental Health Crisis](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/white-house-series-of-virtual-conversations-on-the-mental-health-crisis/) - Step Up For Mental Health® continues to bring you important topics that families and communities can use to have informed news about mental health. In 2022 our focus is on Youth Mental Health, and we are excited to see that the White House is focusing on mental health in youth, veterans and how it impacts - [009 Episode: Mental Talk: Interview with "We're Not Ok" Dr. Antija M. Allen and Justin T. Stewart [Podcast]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/009-episode-mental-talk-interview-with-were-not-ok-dr-antija-m-allen-and-justin-t-stewart-podcast/) - We are at the end of Minority Mental Health Month, and what a wonderful way to end this important month and topic on a high note! Mental Talk podcast (Host: Adrienne McCue) sat down with Dr. Antija Allen and Justin T. Stewart, editors and contributing authors of We're Not OK: Black Faculty Experiences and Higher - [How Narcissistic Abuse Impacts the Family Structure](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-narcissistic-abuse-impacts-the-family-structure/) - Narcissistic personality disorder is one of the most common mental disorders today, affecting 450 million people around the world. People with this condition can stoop to any level to guard their narcissistic behavior by emotionally or even sometimes physically abusing loved ones. Narcissistic abuse has inflicted a lot of pain on families today—many people have come - [Getting Your Thoughts Out: Why Journaling Relieves Stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/getting-your-thoughts-out-why-journaling-relieves-stress/) - There was a recent interesting episode of a podcast on iHeartRadio called Life Kit. It discussed one of the best ways we can deal with ongoing stress today. That method is called journaling. Many people have turned to writing in their journals, notebooks, or diaries as a means of fully expressing themselves and their thoughts. - [Youth Mental Health: Stepping Up to Support Kids With Coping Skills and Education](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/youth-mental-health-stepping-up-to-support-kids-with-coping-skills-and-education/) - As we continue to shed light on mental health issues in May during Mental Health Awareness Month, Step Up For Mental Health’s goal in 2022 is to expand our reach and access to mental health resources for children, teens and young adults. More than ever, children are affected by mental health in the home, in - [Dysthymia: A Different Form of Depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/understanding-dysthymia-a-different-form-of-depression/) - People tend to use the term “depression” as an all-encompassing descriptor of those who experience perpetual sadness. As a result, major depressive disorder (MDD) and dysthymia are often lumped together in discussions about mental health. However, dysthymia is actually a milder, unique form of depression that impacts roughly 1.5% of adults in the United States - [An Overview of Gender Dysphoria in Adults](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/an-overview-of-gender-dysphoria-in-adults/) - Over the past decade, the number of people in the transgender community has been on the rise. A recent poll suggests that as many as 0.7% of American adults identify as transgender, an increase from 0.3% in 2011. While this figure might look small, it still represents over 1 million people who may have gender - [How to Practice Self-Love Before Starting a Relationship](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-practice-self-love-before-starting-a-relationship/) - Throughout history, many people have emphasized loving and knowing yourself before falling in love with someone else. Being secure with yourself has a lot of benefits. When you love yourself, you are likely to have an easier time loving someone else. You’re not so consumed in trying to get someone else’s approval of you—and you - [Press Release: Step Up For Mental Health Welcomes Dr. Ivania Delgado to its Board of Directors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/press-release-step-up-for-mental-health-welcomes-dr-ivania-delgado-to-its-board-of-directors/) - Dr. Ivania Delgado joins the Board of Directors at Step Up For Mental Health® to Make a Different in Families' Lives CHICAGO, May 3, 2021 — Step Up For Mental Health® is pleased to announce that Dr. Ivania Delgado has been elected to its board of directors. Dr. Ivania Delgado brings 15 years of experience - [5 Tips for a Successful Yoga Practice](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-tips-for-a-successful-yoga-practice/) - Personally, my favorite thing to relieve stress is to do some yoga. If you're interested in trying yoga, below I share five tips that can help you have more effective yoga sessions. Go Beyond Asana Postures Asana postures came from western yoga classes and are one part of yoga. These postures were also used to - [How Bulimia is Impacting Teenage Girls Today](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-bulimia-is-impacting-teenage-girls-today/) - With the popularity of social media sites such as TikTok, many teenage girls are facing pressure to look a certain way. As a result, this pressure has led to many of them developing eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Bulimia nervosa happens when a person eats large quantities of food in a - [4 Tips to Achieve a Calmer and Clearer Mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/4-tips-to-achieve-a-calmer-and-clearer-mind/) - Anxiety can have a major impact on your daily life, so it's important to find ways to manage your stress and maintain a healthy perspective. Here I'm sharing four tips to help you achieve a calmer and clearer mind. These are the methods that have been most successful for me—but everyone is different, and you - [How Teen Mental Health Is Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/covid-19-pandemic-effect-on-teen-mental-health/) - This article is about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected teen mental health from the observation point of a high school senior. I have noticed many teens start to socially isolate from each other and interact more on social media or by playing video games with each other rather than going outside to play. That's - [How to Help Black Youth Cope with Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-help-black-youth-cope-with-anxiety/) - Anxiety disorder is a stressful disorder that affects many young people today. It is especially having an impact amongst black youths. About 9% of young Black teens have experienced an episode of major depression in 2020, but only about 40% of these teens have received treatment. Their white counterparts, on the other hand, have sought - [How the Effects of Child Abuse Can Impact Us as Adults](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-the-effects-of-child-abuse-can-impact-us-as-adults/) - Each year, millions of young people are being abused by an adult family member or family friend. Abuse—whether it is physical, verbal or sexual—leaves plenty of scars on a young person’s life. In fact, it could have a tremendous negative impact on their adulthood and health history. Let’s examine further the effects of child abuse - [5 Ways of Fighting Mental Health Stigma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-ways-of-fighting-mental-health-stigma/) - I recently listened to a webinar about mental health stigma which covered all of the common signs associated with mental health stigma. Mental health stigma involves stereotyping or viewing someone in a negative light because you have a different characteristic that’s thought to be a disadvantage. It could lead to discrimination and possibly physical violence. - [Diaphragmatic Breathing: Reduce Stress with the Power of Breath](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/diaphragmatic-breathing-reduce-stress-with-the-power-of-breath/) - Breathing is essential to living. It comes so instinctively to us that it leaves little room to question its proficiency. But what if I told you there was a more efficient way to breathe and simultaneously reduce stress with the power of breath? When we are born, our breathing primarily begins in our abdominal region. - [004 Episode: Mental Talk With Professional Softball Player, Athletes Unlimited Lilli Piper [Podcast]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/004-episode-mental-talk-with-professional-softball-player-athletes-unlimited-lilli-piper-podcast/) - Mental Talk Podcast Series: Step Up For Mental Health® got to sit down with professional softball player Lilli Piper from Athletes Unlimited. We talked about her journey on getting recognition in women's sports, along with the challenges and struggles and why we all need to talk more about mental health in sport! Lilli Piper Piper was a - [Express Appreciation for Caregivers During National Family Caregivers Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/express-appreciation-for-caregivers-during-national-family-caregivers-month/) - In November, we acknowledge all the caregivers of the world during National Family Caregivers Month. Caregiving is one of the hardest jobs in the world. I have a mother who is working hard as one in taking care of her sister who is diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. While I do assist her in doing this, - [Bullying Prevention Starts with Kindness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/bullying-prevention-starts-with-kindness/) - A major risk to the mental health of students in school is bullying. Bullying received more attention in the early 2000s. Therefore, action was taken to incorporate bullying prevention curriculum into schools. The PACER organization was founded in 1977 by parents of children and youth with disabilities. PACER founded National Bullying Prevention month in 2006. Every - [It's Election Week! Keep Calm And Safe As Results Come In](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/its-election-week-keep-calm-and-safe-as-results-come-in/) - This may be one of the most intense presidential elections of our lifetimes (hopefully). So much is on the line, such as COVID-19, reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, and the rights of POC. As a result, U.S. citizens have good reason to be on edge. Unfortunately, some people release their anxieties through violence and destruction, causing - [The Dream That Lives Within Me](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-dream-that-lives-within-me/) - The Dream That Lives Within Me I grew up thinking that something was wrong with me and I could not understand why I was different from my peers. I was shy and wiser than my age, but these qualities are not what made me stand out. Instead, a dream that no one else seemed to - [Feeling Anxious about the Citywide Reopening? Here’s How You Can Cope](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/feeling-anxious-about-the-citywide-reopening-heres-how-you-can-cope/) - As you may have heard, our big city of Chicago has officially begun the process of reopening. The city is now in Phase 5 where most mandatory COVID-19 regulations have been lifted. Most businesses have started the process of reopening within safety guidelines. People have started going back to work in their offices instead of - [Why Traveling is Beneficial for Your Mind, Body and Soul](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-traveling-is-beneficial-for-your-mind-body-and-soul/) - There’s nothing like planning a vacation to visit somewhere special. Whether you want to visit the beaches in Florida or go sightseeing in New York, traveling helps put a person's mind at ease. You can get away from the everyday stress of the world by going somewhere. Let’s explore how traveling is beneficial for your - [Stop Settling For Injustice—Do Something!](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/stop-settling-for-injustice/) - Stop settling for injustice. Do something! The Relationship Between Anxiety and Human Connection Having a severe anxiety disorder makes connecting to others next to impossible. I want connection more than anything, but I need to face the reality that I am not normal. I have never been normal, and probably never will be. It pains - [The Power Behind Austalia’s "R U OK?" Organization](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-power-of-the-r-u-ok-organization/) - The Perfect Life We all want to achieve and succeed. But does our way of thinking and feeling change when we finally get to the top of where we’ve dreamed of being? Gavin Larkin, a native Australian, had a successful marketing career, three children, and a wife. While he was described as an “alpha male” - [Hope Is the Thing with Feathers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/hope-is-the-thing-with-feathers/) - Hope is the thing with feathers. Hope Helps Me Win the War After hitting rock bottom again these past few weeks, seeing a future for myself has been impossible. Without hope, life becomes a lot more dreary. We crave an escape at these profound moments because we just want the pain to go away. When - [Unveiling Meditation: Common Myths Explained and Types of Practice to Explore](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/unveiling-meditation-common-myths-and-types-of-practice/) - Step Up For Mental Health · Unveiling Meditation Common Myths What Is Meditation Exactly? The word meditation means something different to anyone you ask depending on their belief and life experiences: “to be mindful” says the yoga teacher; or “to be present” says the Buddha, “to breathe better and be calm” says the busy boss - [Joking about Suicide isn't Cool; it's Harmful](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/joking-about-suicide-isnt-cool-its-harmful/) - Have you ever heard someone joke about something they had no first-hand experience with? Laughing and clowning about lives that they have never lived. Have you ever made that kind of joke yourself? We all know those jokes and we all know deep down that these jokes are harmful, but when people call them out - [5 Ways You Can Manage Your ADHD in the Workplace](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ways-you-can-manage-your-adhd-in-the-workplace/) - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has affected millions of adults around the world. Some of the symptoms include procrastinating, difficulty paying attention in a conversation, or not completing tasks on time. ADHD could also impact your ability to solve problems and be organized, two skills that are vital for success in the workplace. These sorts - [How Colleges Can Fail on Students' Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-colleges-can-fail-on-students-mental-health/) - The Wellness Check This past week I had a wellness check done on me after posting something on social media that led others to believe that I was a danger to myself. I use social media to tell my story and to express both the good and the bad realities I live with each day. - [Please Hold On Just a Little Longer](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/hold-on-just-a-little-longer/) - I know how hard it is to fight, but just hold on a little longer. Your "someone" is right around the corner. I spent my entire life believing that I would not make it. I continuously believed that my life would end by suicide. After more than 15 suicide attempts, I questioned why God kept - [Why You Should Say 'No' More Often](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-you-should-say-no-more-often/) - I struggle with saying “no.” I can be having the worst day—you know the kind where your coffee spills, or there’s a pileup on the interstate, or your dog tears up your favorite pillow, or the key gets stuck in the latch too many times. And if someone wanted me to do something for them, - [Always Choose To Love More](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/always-choose-to-love-more/) - Always Choose To Love More Choose to love more, as it is always the way to healing. Help others heal by loving always. You have the power. The Worst Part About Trauma The worst part about trauma is that triggers are all around us. One of my greatest triggers is seeing children with their - [I Am Mary Mathieu: Voiceless But Mighty](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/voiceless-but-mighty/) - My Voiceless Past I grew up believing that anything I said or did would offend someone, so I learned to silence the beautiful voice I once had. The little outgoing girl who once was is no longer because survival always meant silence. That little girl not only lost herself, but the beautiful voice that gave - [Increasing Awareness About Mental Health Among Minorities](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/increasing-awareness-about-mental-health-among-minorities/) - The US has observed National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month every July since 2008. To be more specific, the official name of the month is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Bebe Moore Campbell was a mental health advocate who raised awareness on the mental health needs of the Black community. This shows - [The Importance of Educating Family Members about Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-importance-of-educating-family-members-about-mental-health/) - While the stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness has decreased in recent years, it still exists in our society and influences the way people think about mental health. This stigma remains for a number of reasons, one of which is the lack of interaction and experience with mental illness. According to Psychiatry.org, one of - [Show Them They Are Worth Fighting For](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/show-them-they-are-worth-fighting-for/) - Am I Worth Fighting For? As often as I put on a brave face, I am not okay. Every day, I live with the reality that I never experienced the love that every child deserves to experience. My childhood was my adulthood. I had to grow up fast to survive as I faced the - [What Childhood Suicide Is Telling Us: We Cannot Underestimate Children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-childhood-suicide-is-telling-us/) - Photo by Trym Nilsen on Unsplash Two Childhood Stories The New York Times recently covered a story about 11-year-old Marie. The young daughter of a nurse called a suicide prevention hotline while listening to music on a walk. Prior to this, her friendships and loneliness through the pandemic worried her. The hotline and her mother - [Reparenting Your Inner Child: Ways to Encourage Therapeutic Dialogue](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/reparenting-your-inner-child/) - We never fully grow up. At least not in the way we’d like to believe. Within us, there is an eternal child that always has something to feel or say. The question is, is that voice being heard? Is its laughter and cries a mere whisper or a deafening roar? Perhaps you’ve noticed that sometimes - [Stay Strong Even As the War Rages On](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/stay-strong-even-as-the-war-rages-on/) - Tired But Strong I am tired—tired of fighting an invisible war that is not so invisible anymore, tired of being treated like an outcast because I am different. The War Rages On My once invisible war that is not so invisible anymore is anxiety. Lately my anxiety has been controlling me rather than I controlling - [Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: Bringing Awareness to PTSD](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/bringing-awareness-to-ptsd/) - What is PTSD? Post-traumatic Stress Disorder is when trauma stays in the body long after a traumatic event has occurred. An example is when a pedestrian is struck by a car. One of two things will happen: the person will physically move out the shock from the body while lying in the street, or the - [How People with ADHD Can Adjust After COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-people-with-adhd-can-adjust-after-covid-19/) - With the COVID-19 vaccines rolling out fast, the entire world has been slowly trying to reopen. However, there are many people who may have a difficult time readjusting after COVID-19. People with ADHD in particular may struggle post-pandemic with attentiveness and the ability to refocus their minds into a new environment. If you’re a person with - [A Thank You from Me to You](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-thank-you-from-me-to-you/) - Dear reader, thank you. We all have rough days in this life. It is in these rough patches of life when we need to be reminded of our worth because it is often difficult to see for ourselves. Building others up is very important as we never know what battles they are facing. We must - [Carry on for the Ones You Love](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-reason-to-carry-on-is-love/) - Love Surrounds You Amid Fear Carry on for those you love, even when it is hard, even when you are terrified. Carry On For Love Soon I will be 20 years old. For many, this is a time of joy and excitement. I, however, fear 20. I dreaded 18 and now I am dreading 20, - [Observing International Day of Yoga for Our Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/observing-international-day-of-yoga-for-our-mental-health/) - Our Day of Yoga Monday, June 21, 2021, marks the seventh annual International Day of Yoga. Proposed by India, this day was given its name by the United Nations in December 2014. The purpose behind it is to raise awareness of the benefits yoga has for our mental health and body. The word “yoga” is - [How Creative Writing Exercises Can Lessen Anxiety and Heighten Self-Confidence](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/creative-writing-exercises-lessen-anxiety-and-heighten-self-confidence/) - Getting Out of My Own Way I’m a writer who often finds it difficult to motivate myself to start writing, no matter what the project is. I’m also someone with anxiety. You’d think that losing sleep or ruminating over something would encourage me to simply write in a journal to feel better. But it’s never - [Why Autism Acceptance Matters](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-autism-acceptance-matters/) - World Autism Day Every year, April 2 is designated as World Autism Day. The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder has been growing with each year. We may not know a lot of people with autism yet, or maybe they haven’t shared that detail openly for fear of lack of acceptance. Along with World Autism Day, - [Recovery Is Difficult but You Are Capable](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/recovery-is-difficult-but-you-are-capable/) - Recovery Is Difficult The unfortunate reality is that I have really been struggling lately. As much as I hate to admit it, I feel like I am back where I started. Recovery truly is a difficult process. Defining Recovery I say that recovery is difficult, but what does it really mean to recover? Is it - [5 Productive Hobbies That are Beneficial for Your Mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/productive-hobbies-that-are-beneficial-for-your-mind/) - In May, we acknowledge the importance of being aware of our mental health. One of the most important ways of taking care of our minds is by engaging in productive activities or hobbies. During last year’s quarantine, many people either started new hobbies or restarted old hobbies that they once had. Whether it’s sewing a - [How Mantras Help Us Reach Our Full Potential](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mantras-help-us/) - Mantras help us in ways that we may not see at first. One mantra that helped me tremendously is "God is within her, she will not fall." —Psalm 46:5 Choosing My Mantra At the start of each academic year, I always identify a mantra that will help guide me through challenges. Staying true to my - [How Risky Pandemic Behavior Can Affect Families](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-risky-pandemic-behavior-can-affect-families/) - Step Up For Mental Health · How Risky Pandemic Behavior Can Affect Families Inhaling the scents of newly cut grass, mint, and mulch during my walk opens the creative and relaxed parts of my brain—because the natural world around me is open itself. The green and blue ecotherapy session, as Katie Martinez discusses in her - [I Stand Strong After Narcissistic Abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/i-stand-strong/) - I Stand Strong After being abused by a narcissist for 18 years, I know one when I see one. If I ever stop talking with someone out of nowhere, it is because I refuse to be treated like my mother treated me. I am finally standing up for myself. If you do not understand, then - [Help Break the Vicious Cycle of Child Abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/help-break-the-vicious-cycle-of-child-abuse/) - This month marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month and this is an epidemic that has impacted many youths around the world. During this month, families and communities strive to work together in strengthening families to prevent child abuse and neglect. More than ever, children are at risk of different types of abuse. It's our job - [Reclaiming our Body Authority: Five Ways to move from "Bodylessness" to "Bodyfulness"](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/five-ways-to-move-from-bodylessness-to-bodyfulness/) - Bodyful Authority We know the practice of mindfulness is ubiquitous: in phone apps, streaming services, wellness centers, schools, and offices. But mindfulness is connected with a few other words that somatic counselor Christine Caldwell calls “Bodyfulness and “Bodylessness.” The article “Why Bodyfulness Matters to the Mind” introduces the concept of bodyfulness along with a few - [Your Mental Health Journey is Valid: Showing Yourself Compassion When Others Do Not](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/your-mental-health-journey-is-valid-showing-yourself-compassion-when-others-do-not/) - Some people require a certain representation of facts and experiences that fit the cookie-cutter narrative they have created about what mental health should look like and feel like. They look at you, and they don’t see what you feel—they only feel what they want to see. It is almost like they look through you in - [Let Them See You Starting Today](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/6720-2-see-me/) - Let Them See Me See me. Lately I have just been feeling so out of it. All I notice is that time keeps passing and I remain stuck. Because I'm Stuck Stuck. This has been the one word that has described my life perfectly over the years. I search for answers but find none. I - [How Sexual Assault Survivors Connect Through the Clothesline Project](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/sexual-assault-survivors-connect-through-clothesline-project/) - Photo by Erik-Jan Leusink on Unsplash Editor's note: Information in the following article may be triggering for those dealing with sexual abuse. Awareness of Sexual Assault At the turn of the millennium, the words “sexual assault” on the internet brought you primarily to stories of young women as victims being abused by men. The - [What I do to be Empowered: Five Small, Significant Actions For Female Empowerment](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-i-do-to-be-empowered-five-small-significant-actions-for-female-empowerment/) - Step Up For Mental Health · What I do to be Empowered: Five Small, Significant Actions For Female Empowerment The Ottoman of Official Empowerment Empowerment comes in endless forms. For instance, one form is found inside my ottoman. Its beautiful brown legs balance an empty journal and goddess affirmation deck in the belly of the - [003 Episode: Mental Talk: End of 2020 in a Pandemic World [Podcast]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/003-episode-mental-talk-end-of-2020-in-a-pandemic-world-podcast/) - Year-in-review on how this year shaped up supporting families more than ever before, along with self-care and mental health stress along the way. We are glad this year is winding down, and looking into the future of 2021.  Mental Talk Podcast: Mental Talk is run by Step Up For Mental Health (A peer-to-peer nonprofit) - [5 Tips for a Happy, Stress-Free Spring Cleaning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-tips-for-a-happy-stress-free-spring-cleaning/) - Spring has sprung upon us. During this time of the year, many people are feeling in the mood to do some cleaning around their houses. Sometimes, we all need to do a little organizing of our lives. There happen to be several good tips we can follow to jumpstart a stress-free spring cleaning. Here are - [Dancing for the Mind and Body](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/dancing-for-the-mind-and-body/) - Something about turning the volume up, feeling the bass, and dancing to a great song can replenish my mind and body like nothing else. The more I dance, the more I’m able to give myself permission to put me and what makes my body feel good first. The more I’m able to release my inhibitions, - [Your Voice Is Beautiful—And So Are You](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/your-voice-is-beautiful-and-so-are-you/) - My voice is beautiful—and so am I. This is why I am speaking out today. It's Beautiful That Age Is Just A Number Age is just a number. This is especially true in cases of trauma. Dear 7-Year-Old Me, Your Voice Is Beautiful Currently I am a 7-year-old in a 19-year-old body. Trauma has this - [A Lovingkindness Meditation: Won’t You Be My Neighbor?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-lovingkindness-meditation-wont-you-be-my-neighbor/) - Step Up For Mental Health · A Lovingkindness Meditation Where Is the Unconditional Love? Between waiting for a house project to finish and not being able to be there for my family during the pandemic, my energy has been pretty dormant lately. Because I cannot control either situation, I find my body and mind working - [Pandemic Mental Health Trends in Children and Teenagers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/pandemic-mental-health-trends-kids/) - CDC Findings on ER Visits At the end of 2020, the CDC shared findings on emergency room visits for children 18 years old and younger. It was the mental health visits that the CDC focused on in their findings. The mental health of children has been seriously impacted in the past year. Children and teenagers - [Be Their Safety: Help Heal the Motherless](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/be-their-safety-help-heal-the-motherless/) - I Long for Safety Safety is what I long for. The Little Girl Imagine this. A little girl who is seven years old craves a mother's love more than anything, yet the love she seeks is nowhere to be found. She wants to be held in her mother's arms, because that is the only safe - [Time with Nature Benefits Our Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/spending-time-in-nature-benefits-mental-health/) - When we think of nature, we may think of hiking and camping in the lonesome forest like Thoreau and the romantic poets did (or at least wrote about). From these famous thinkers and your resident hiking/camping/adventure enthusiasts (yes, Rob Lowe from Parks and Recreation, I am looking at you), we are inundated with depictions of - [Invite More Personal Growth Into Your Life By Celebrating Small Wins](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/invite-more-personal-growth-into-your-life-by-celebrating-small-wins/) - Step Up For Mental Health · Invite More Personal Growth Into Your Life By Celebrating Small Wins Every year shines a different kind of light on our accomplishments. One year, your personal achievements could include getting a promotion, buying a new car or expanding your social circle; the next, it could simply be finishing that - [The Benefits and Drawbacks of Therapeutic Writing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/benefits-and-drawbacks-of-therapeutic-writing/) - Step Up For Mental Health · The Benefits and Drawbacks of Therapeutic Writing Therapeutic Writing Princy Daniel’s recent article, “10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Journaling,” reminds me of how we may benefit from the use of therapeutic writing. Therapeutic writing, or "expressive" writing, asks us to focus on healing ourselves after trauma or abuse. - [You Don't Need To Be Fixed](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/you-dont-need-to-be-fixed/) - Behind In Everything I do not need to be fixed even though I am behind my peers. Everyone seems to be enjoying their first few years of adulthood, but I am stuck longing to be the kid I never had the chance to be. Trauma has that effect on people. The Adult Kid I never - [How Parents Can Cope When Their Child Has Anger Management Issues](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-parents-can-cope-when-their-child-has-anger-management-issues/) - Parents today have a lot of things to cope with when it comes to their children. They have to deal with their growing pains and changing emotional issues and it can be a lot for them to bear. On top of this, some parents have children with anger issues. What are some practical ways they - [Exploring the "Vagus" Strip: Why the Vagus Nerve is Key to Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/exploring-the-vagus-strip-why-the-vagus-nerve-is-key-to-mental-health/) - Photo by Jacob Stone on Unsplash Step Up For Mental Health · Article: Exploring the Vagus Strip What’s This "Vagus Strip" All About? The vagus nerve is more than a nerve that catches and releases signals throughout the body - it's a nerve that we can actually control, and one that plays a big role - [How I Reclaim Power From Mental Abuse: A Letter to a Teenager](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-i-reclaim-power-from-mental-abuse/) - For the Teenager Hindsight as an adult offers answers to questions that I didn’t know as a teenager. As a teen, I didn’t know there were different types of mental abuse that shaped me as I grew up. I also didn’t know there were ways to reclaim power from the seed of mental abuse. Now - [10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Journaling](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/10-questions-to-ask-yourself-when-journaling/) - The start of every new year brims with so much promise and is an inspirational space of time where our sincerest hopes, deepest desires and an immortal motivation collide—and I think something beautiful and productive can happen there. But, if 2020 was any indication, I am going to live true to Robert Burns and remember - [5 Of The Best Ways Black Women Can Protect Their Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-of-the-best-ways-black-women-can-protect-their-mental-health/) - During February, we celebrate Black History Month. Like every American, African-Americans do undergo mental health issues as well. However, one group of people who go through a lot are Black women. With so many activities that they go through as mothers, sisters, caretakers and more, it’s a wonder that they can face the world each - [Where Does Mental Healthcare Fit in Insurance Coverage?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/where-does-mental-healthcare-fit-in-insurance-coverage/) - In the past, many health insurance plans weren't too kind to people with mental illnesses. Until the Affordable Care Act (ACA) came into effect, 28 states in America had no requirements that individual market plans cover or offer any mental health services to patients. Now, as of 2014, most individual and small-group health insurance plans, including - [Why Did The Mental Health System Fail Me?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-the-mental-health-system-has-failed-me/) - The Big Question Why did the mental health system fail me? Failing Mental Health For most of my life, I have been wondering what is wrong with me. After years of therapy, several hospitalizations and endless medications, I still do not feel better. The pain that I feel does not want to go away. I - [Is Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Right for Me? What It's All About](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/is-trauma-sensitive-yoga-right-for-me-what-its-all-about/) - Step Up For Mental Health · Trauma Sensitive Yoga What is Trauma-Sensitive Yoga? Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TSY) is a hidden gem for trauma survivors who may be curious about taking a yoga class but question the safety behind it for their well-being. Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, like other types of yoga, focuses on bringing awareness to what’s happening - [Let Go Of Toxic Relationships Starting Today](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/let-go-of-toxic-relationships/) - It Is Time To Let Go It is time to let go. Let go of the things that worry you, and the things that hold you back. They are no longer worth your energy. Letting Go Is Difficult But Worth It Letting go is hard, especially when we are letting go of the people we love. - [Declutter for Your Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/declutter-for-your-mental-health/) - Decluttering is a frequent topic of conversation at the beginning of the year. We want to clear out the old, the broken and the worn-out in our homes. A decluttered environment can definitely have an impact on mood and reduce your stress and anxiety levels, especially during the winter season when you're more likely to - [How to Combat Overthinking](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-combat-overthinking/) - “You are so overthinking this!” “I believe you're thinking about it too much.” If I had a dime for every time someone said this to me, I would be a very wealthy overthinker. I will preface this by saying that I love to take small or simple questions and dive deep into them, having out - [How You Can Cope with Paralyzing Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-you-can-cope-with-paralyzing-anxiety/) - Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash Paralyzing anxiety is something I have been struggling with since high school. As someone who frequently experiences these episodes of paralysis, I would best define them as heightened degrees of anxiety that limit one's ability to move and interact with his or her environment. If he or she - [A Set of Grief Exercises for Continuous Healing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-set-of-grief-exercises-for-continuous-healing/) - Step Up For Mental Health · A Set of Grief Exercises for Continuous Healing Does Grief Expire? It’s been nearly three years since losing my father, and sometimes it takes less than a second for me to start crying when my eyes fall across his in a picture. Because my eyelids have become dams, my - [5 Positive Affirmations for Better Mental Health in 2021](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-positive-affirmations-for-better-mental-health/) - The year 2021 is now upon us. Like every new year, we all strive to create new goals or resolutions so can improve in the future. However, some people also create short inspirational statements for themselves called affirmations. Affirmations are often used by people to help them cope with life's challenges and empower themselves to - [Practicing Self-Compassion: Being a Friend to My Own Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/practicing-self-compassion-to-benefit-mental-health/) - Practicing self-compassion can create positive impacts on our mental health and in our relationships with others. I think of self-compassion as a way of acting like a friend to myself. We all wish we could see ourselves through the eyes of the people that love us and think highly of us, and self-compassion is one - [Quick Sensory Grounding Exercises for People Always on the Go](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/quick-sensory-grounding-exercises-for-people-always-on-the-go/) - Step Up For Mental Health · Article: Quick Sensory Grounding Exercises For People On the Go The day before us can look like a long, winding road with twists and turns and unpaved paths, just as much as it can look like a timed 400-meter sprint. Our minds are conditioned to work under a time - ['Tis The Season To Pay Attention To Your Holiday Depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/holiday-mental-health-advice/) - Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash This holiday season, people across the world are stressed now more than ever as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. People have been laid off from work or are restricted to staying home because they are more at risk of suffering from the virus than others. This, combined with - [Use Your Past To Change The Future](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/use-your-past-to-change-the-future/) - Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash The Family Secret For the longest time, I have been afraid to share my story. It has always been this big secret that no one could ever know. There are two sides to every story, but mine has not been validated. I am not silencing my voice anymore. The - [Loneliness and the Impulse to Shop](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/shopping-to-solve-loneliness/) - People who experience loneliness fit into at least two categories: One, those who have too many connections but not feeling connected to most of them; Two, those who have many connections but feel that there are not enough people to connect to in their lives. The feeling of loneliness is not correlated to the number - [A Lighthearted Perspective on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-lighthearted-perspective-on-mental-health/) - Mental health is a serious and important subject, but a lighthearted approach to healing and coping can be beneficial. Struggling with mental health often feels like a heavy weight. I often feel weighed down by my own problems and I've tried to practice letting go and incorporating lightheartedness into my coping strategy toolbox. It's served - [You Are Capable: Managing Depression After Years Of Being Stuck](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/you-are-capable-managing-depression-after-years-of-being-stuck/) - Living With Depression Living life with depression is extremely difficult. Most days it is even hard to get out of bed. The things I once loved now seem to take up all of my energy. I wish it was easier and that I could spend my life living rather than fighting to survive each day. - [During COVID, My OCD Online Community Became my Cornerstone to Healing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/during-covid-my-ocd-online-community-became-my-cornerstone-to-healing/) - Photo by Vonecia Carswell on Unsplash Living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has always been a whirlwind experience for me. Some days are spent in agony, some days I softly laugh at myself, and some days are filled with empathy and connection. I pride myself on the work I’ve done to manage a lot of my - [Three Ways to Find Flow When Lacking Motivation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/three-ways-to-find-flow-when-lacking-motivation/) - Sometimes we make plans and realize there isn’t enough energy and inspiration to get us out the door. We find ourselves frantically looking for stored energy — perhaps the leftover sparks from a week ago will get us through the day. When these feelings and thoughts start to arise, it’s important to note exactly when - [How to Balance Mental Health and Productivity During COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mental-health-productivity-during-covid/) - At the start of the pandemic, a new term gained prominence: productivity culture. We felt determined to use the extra time spent inside to be productive and learn new skills. But it's important to understand how to balance mental health and productivity during COVID-19. With the pandemic continuing to have its effects, many people also - [When to Leave a "Toxic" Relationship?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/when-to-leave-a-toxic-relationship/) - A few weeks ago, a friend of mine called to ask for my opinion. Her boyfriend had done the unthinkable and she knew the right thing to do was to leave him. At the same time, she knew she’d miss him. While I absolutely did tell her, “Yes, girl. Leave that man alone.” I also - [Chris Rock is Diagnosed with Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/chris-rock-is-diagnosed-with-nonverbal-learning-disorder-nvld/) - In a Hollywood Reporter article, Chris Rock mentioned a diagnosis of Nonverbal Learning Disorder or NVLD. A friend suggested Rock had Asperger's, so he decided to look into it. Sure enough, after cognitive testing, at 55 years old, he got an answer. NVLD is hard to catch and is often missed until late adulthood. So, - [Undo the Taboo: Erase ‘Proper’ Grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/undo-the-taboo-erase-proper-grief/) - Step Up For Mental Health · Blog: Undo the Taboo: Erase ‘Proper’ Grief Proper Etiquette of Grief I sat at my mother's dining room table less than a week after my dad's passing. As I was sitting, figuring out his mail, anger was building and I had to release it somehow. My hand punched down - [5 Mental Health Exercises You Should Be Doing This Winter](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-mental-health-exercises-you-should-be-doing-this-winter/) - This winter season is going to be different for a lot of people because of the coronavirus pandemic. Due to the virus, people have mostly been in their homes. There’s no doubt that this has led many to succumb to mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder. To help combat these issues, - [A Routine to Help You Rise Through Grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-routine-to-help-you-rise-through-grief/) - Caging the Open Heart Our hearts are caged in bones. When we are sad, the concave shape that our shoulders and chest create forms a heavy layer that hinders our health and well-being. Inflammation from stress throws the body’s immune system off balance, and shallow or incomplete breathing can turn into a permanent irregular pattern. - [A Light at the End of the Tunnel: Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-light-therapy-for-seasonal-affective-disorder/) - Every winter is the same thing for me: gloomy, dark, and sad. While many people tend to feel more downhearted during this particular season because of the short days and cold weather, some have what's called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that usually occurs toward the end of fall and - [How Emotional Support Animals Can Save Us From the Darkness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-emotional-support-animals-can-save-us-from-the-darkness/) - My Mental Health Story For most of my life, I have been fighting an "invisible" battle known as mental illness. Managing more than one mental illness diagnosis makes things even harder. Getting by is far from easy, especially when you are trying to manage suicidal ideation on top of the diagnoses you already have. I - [The Connection Between Anxiety and Caffeine](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/connection-between-anxiety-and-caffeine/) - In a variety of forms, caffeine is an essential part of many people’s lives. It may be that first cup of coffee that wakes you up in the morning. Maybe it's a glass of iced tea that gives you a jolt of energy in the afternoon. But if you're experiencing increased anxiety, you may need - [How to Overcome Seasonal Affective Disorder This Winter](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/overcome-seasonal-affective-disorder/) - Just as you prepare your home, your car, and your closet for the winter season, it's a good time to evaluate your mental health and make a plan for the season. Many people may struggle when the time changes and early darkness sets in. According to Mental Health America, seasonal depression—also called seasonal affective disorder - [My Worth Always Lives On](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/my-worth-always-lives-on/) - "Why can't I be normal?" This is a question that I find myself asking a lot lately. My Struggle With Anxiety One mental health diagnosis that I have is generalized anxiety disorder. My anxiety often takes a toll on my day-to-day productivity. Each day that I have class or an extracurricular event, my fear of - [Walking Meditation and the Intersection](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/walking-meditation-intersects-with-a-paused-mind/) - Beginning in Stillness If you’re living, do something, my mind whispered, as I studied the tub's diverter valve. What 13-year-old thinks of taking a bath? It continued. But my body was craving a blanket made of warm standing water. It was exhausted and grateful. Exhausted from fighting peer pressure but grateful because I knew my - [Graduating from College Led Me to Therapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/graduating-from-college-led-me-to-therapy/) - After graduating from college, I lost a large portion of my sense of purpose and direction. I had worked for 22 years towards a degree and thought of little else along the way. The toll of this life change on my mental health eventually led me to therapy as my confusion, anxiety, and negative sense - [Managing OCD: A Path to Recovery Through Vulnerability](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/managing-ocd-a-path-to-recovery-through-vulnerability/) - Some individuals hear the diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and feel a huge sense of relief. Others feel a sense of panic or fear of isolation. In some cases, the diagnosis is the first time someone's ever heard those three words strung together. I hope that anyone suffering from OCD today realizes that they are - [How Domestic Violence Impacts Women's Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-domestic-violence-impacts-womens-mental-health/) - Throughout America, many women find themselves in relationships with men that all of a sudden become verbally and physically abusive. They know that these relationships are not good for their emotional and psychological health, yet they continue to stay in the relationship. Why? It could be love, or low self-esteem, or maybe even denial. But - [Reading Books Can Benefit Your Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/reading-books-can-benefit-hour-mental-health/) - Around this time of year, I often begin to feel lonelier and struggle to feel connected with others. Lately, I’ve turned to a beloved pastime: reading. Reading always reminds me of how much healing power stories hold. Reading an engrossing book with dynamic characters, a charming setting, and beautiful prose that pulls me into the - [Reducing your Anxiety during this COVID-19 and Flu Season](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/protection-from-covid-19-and-the-flu-this-winter-season/) - With the flu season getting underway and the pandemic still amongst us, many families have found themselves trying to find protection from both contagious illnesses. It has left them with a lot of feelings of anxiety this winter. Whether you have children or not, many of us have to do extra to protect our immune - [Why Bodyfulness Matters to the Mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/connecting-with-the-body/) - A Child's Worry It felt like there were two hearts in my body: one heart in my chest and the other in my throat. We were on our way home from a store off the main highway. From the back of my family’s truck, my mind was at it again — ruminating over a scene - [Seasonal Depression in a Pandemic: Winter Is Coming](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/seasonal-depression-in-a-pandemic/) - In the past six months, I have listened to more news, science, opinions, and press conferences than ever before. In this age of instant information, it is a blessing to stay aware of coronavirus updates and associated public health advisories, but the onslaught of facts can be overwhelming if I’m not in the right headspace - [Keep On Keeping On: The World Needs the Gift of You](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/keep-on-keeping-on-the-world-needs-the-gift-of-you/) - The Before Living with suicidal ideation is extremely difficult. Being easily triggered is the worst part. Negative thoughts always find a way into my mind, no matter the circumstance. I have been in and out of hospitals for suicidal ideation and suicide attempts since I was 13. It has been a vicious cycle of returning, - [Help the World Help You: Asking is Strength](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/help-the-world-help-you-asking-is-strength/) - Music speaks volumes. Certain songs have a tendency to find you at the moment you need them most. After listening to the radio one day this past week, I fell in love with my new favorite song. "Truth Be Told" by Matthew West is helping me through the rough patches I have been experiencing lately. - [The Candle That God Gave Me](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-candle-that-god-gave-me/) - Looking For Acceptance Some things seem to understand me just as people do. We have a longing to be understood in this world. We want to feel like we belong somewhere, if not everywhere. Most of our behaviors reflect our desire to "be at home." We long for someone to care us and to notice - [What is Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and How It Is Affecting People in Their 50s](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-is-frontotemporal-dementia/) - Frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, is a neurological disorder centered in the brain's frontal lobe. Since it affects the frontal lobe, the part of the brain responsible for behavior and emotions, it can cause a person to lose their personality traits. An estimated 50,000-60,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with this lesser-known dementia. This number - [5 Ways to Handle an Adult Bully](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-handle-an-adult-bully/) - Attending school almost every day for the first 18 years of our lives, each of us has experienced bullying in one form or another. Walking in the front door of elementary school can feel like entering a war zone for some. Whether physical or verbal, all forms of bullying are painful. It’s easy to believe - [Students' Mental Health: Beyond Covid-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/students-mental-health/) - As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, many schools across America have shifted to the virtual classroom. Even at schools that are open part- or full-time, the experience is not the same for children. Therefore, schools should be prepared to meet students' mental health needs right now. The number of mental health professionals assigned to - [When The Ant Goes Marching On](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/nature-helps-me-cope-with-the-stresses-of-college-and-life/) - Why me? I find myself asking this question a lot lately, among many other questions. In this post, I will be discussing my recent struggles with not feeling good enough, and how nature helps me cope with the stresses of college and life. As thoughts of self-doubt invade my mind, the anger within me keeps - [Postpartum Depression: More Than Baby Blues?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/postpartum-depression-more-than-baby-blues/) - When you’re a first-time mom, you are living in a world of brand-new experiences. Pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum phase will all bring expected as well as unexpected changes. It can be exhilarating, scary, joyful, and uncertain, all at the same time. Bringing a baby into the world is a truly life-altering experience. There are - [5 Ways to Seek Help for Dealing with Suicidal Thoughts](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/5-ways-to-seek-help-for-dealing-with-suicidal-thoughts/) - During this pandemic, the latest data show that the rate of people either committing suicide or experiencing thoughts of doing so has gone up in the U.S. According to the Journal of American Medicine, suicide rates have been rising over the last two decades. The recent numbers show the highest age-adjusted suicide rate since 1941. - [3 Hard Lessons I Learned About Mental Health in My Early 20s](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/3-hard-lessons-i-learned-about-mental-health-in-my-early-20s/) - The topics of self-care and being a “friend to yourself” were hitting a peak around the time I was leaving high school for college. One of my first-year mandatory seminars was about the importance of mental health, accessing school therapists, and building a network of trusted peers and adults to count on. It all seemed - [Your Story Is Your Strength and Your Way to Healing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/your-story-is-your-strength-and-your-way-to-healing/) - My story is my strength. For the longest time, I wanted to believe that I am stronger than my story. I needed to believe that my story did not define me or my future. However, after battling depression, anxiety, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) throughout most of my 19-years of life, I learned that - [Dealing with Depression During the Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/dealing-with-depression-during-the-pandemic/) - Those of us who struggle with depression at any other time face a whole new challenge in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. The psychological impact of months in a lockdown cannot be underestimated. This is particularly so for individuals with existing mental health needs. What can you do to mitigate the symptoms of depression - [National Voter Registration Day: Absentee Ballots And What To Expect](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/national-voter-registration-day-absentee-ballots-and-what-to-expect/) - National Voter Registration Day is on Sept. 22, 2020. This General Election is expected to have record breaking turnout, even with the COVID-19 pandemic that everyone is facing. As a result of COVID-19, there are more requests for absentee ballots than ever before. Fear of contracting the virus and spread of the disease has pushed - [How My Abusive Relationship Shaped My Future](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-my-abusive-relationship-shaped-my-future/) - Ending An Abusive Relationship The end of my abusive relationship was like stepping out of a strange nightmare. The morning after, I felt as if my previous life from ten months earlier was simply resuming and everything in between happened to someone else -- not me. He was a typical prince charming at first. - [How Women Can Maintain Balance Working from Home](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-women-can-maintain-balance-working-from-home/) - Remote working, or working from home, does come with several positive points. If you’re a woman involved in this line of work, it could have its pros and cons. For example, if you’re a parent, it could be a big task of balancing work at home with raising your children. However, remote working can also - [A Terrible Haircut: A Blessing in Disguise?](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/a-terrible-haircut-a-blessing-in-disguise/) - A good haircut is something so simple yet has the power to instill in us a confidence that we otherwise would struggle to find. On the other hand, a bad haircut has the power to either weaken or destroy our confidence completely. It is amazing how a single haircut can provide two different results. I - [Online Learning: Creating a Healthy Environment](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/online-learning-creating-a-healthy-environment/) - Back to school has gone into full swing. Although, I don't have to say anything for you to know that there is a different connotation to going back to school this year. Most of the time back to school is accompanied by fun shopping trips, ice-cream socials, and excited children--or at least excited parents. As - [6 Tips to Have a More Mindful Day in Quarantine](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/6-tips-to-have-a-more-mindful-day-in-quarantine/) - Why We Need to be Focusing on our Mental Health in These Times: Much of this country is waking up to multiple pandemics. One is the physiological issue surrounding the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. With cases on a steady incline in America, masks, hand sanitizers, and 6 feet apart have become chants in the back of everyone’s - [Riding the Anxiety Roller Coaster](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/riding-the-anxiety-roller-coaster/) - Anxiety, or Generalized Anxiety Disorder, can start with a stressful situation that goes on for a while, and then continues for an extended period of time. It really elevates the levels of tension within your body. It requires a medical diagnosis, so if worrying about circumstances has started to take more and more of a - [How Parents Can Protect their Children’s Mental Well-being](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-parents-can-protect-their-childrens-mental-well-being/) - Parents today have an uphill battle in fulfilling the job of raising children in this decade. It’s not an easy job, but it’s especially tough in this technology driven era. During this pandemic, many parents have discovered they need to protect their children’s mental well-being. These current hard times we’re dealing with has left a - [Overthinking is an Introvert's Superpower](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/overthinking-is-an-introverts-superpower/) - The brain of an introvert can be a complicated web of ideas and thoughts. There is a lot of thinking activity going on in there most of the time! Being an introvert can be quite exhausting. For this reason and others, introverts prefer to spend more time alone and re-balance their energy through solitude. In - [How to Find a Therapist](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-find-a-therapist/) - Therapy. If you’ve read my previous blogs then you know that I love therapy. (Shout out to my therapist, I love you). After going to a mental health presentation on campus, I was shocked to hear how many students didn’t know how to gain access to therapists outside of Northwestern University. In terms of finding - [Thinking about What I Need in a Friend](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/thinking-about-what-i-need-in-a-friend/) - Have you ever read something that was speaking exactly to you? Like, you’re reading it and suddenly you’re being reprimanded and you’re like oh crap? A few days ago, while scrolling on Instagram, I was called out for constantly complaining I don’t have enough friends, and also not knowing what a friend is. How I’m - [Why I Embrace Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-i-embrace-mental-health/) - Shaping My Identity Today is my last blog for Step Up for Mental Health® and I wanted to end on a personal note. One thing that’s been heavy on my mind lately is all of the things I’ve endured in my life. Why have I had to deal with these things? I haven’t talked much - [Toxic Relationships: Dealing with Unhealthy Family Members](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/toxic-relationships-dealing-with-unhealthy-family-members/) - The air feels frigid when my uncle walks into the room. He’s cold and mean. He has a special way of saying just the right thing to make you doubt everything about yourself. I want to hide in my bedroom for a week after seeing him for an hour. My uncle tends to have toxic - [The Inevitable Mental Drain Of Financial Insecurity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-inevitable-mental-drain-of-financial-insecurity/) - As the concerning rift between the middle class and one percent of the U.S. population continues to grow, financial insecurity is beginning to become a lot more common. Almost 40 percent of Americans are not able to comfortably pay for a $400 emergency. With the constant threat of someone's car breaking down, a pipe burst, - [TMJ: Managing Chronic Jaw Pain and its Effects on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tmj-managing-chronic-jaw-pain-and-its-effects-on-mental-health/) - When I was a teenager, I was minding my business eating a sandwich when my Temporomandibular Joint started screaming at me. I ran to my mom to complain of sharp pain in my jaw and continued to have trouble eating for weeks. As weeks turned to a month, I was taken to a doctor who - [How COVID-19 Intensifies Symptoms of Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-covid-19-intensifies-symptoms-of-anxiety/) - Anxiety affects 40 million adults in the United States alone. This is about 18 percent of the population who has some sort of anxiety disorder, ranging from; Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder(OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD), and many more. As Covid-19 continues to be a prevalent part of life, affecting everyone in many different ways, people - [Kid-Friendly Quarantine Date Night Ideas for Each Love Language](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/kid-friendly-quarantine-date-night-ideas-for-each-love-language/) - COVID-19 has been strenuous in many marriages. For starters, it's a high-stress environment, and no one is performing at their best. Being in constant, close proximity to your spouse allows you to see these stress-induced flaws up close. In fact, things that you used to love about them become annoying simply because you're stressed and - [Orthorexia: My Struggle With the "Purest" Eating Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/orthorexia-my-struggle-with-the-purest-eating-disorder/) - Whether you’re scrolling on social media or perusing the aisles of your favorite grocery store, the encouragement to eat healthier is everywhere. The global wellness economy is a 4 trillion+ industry, with the healthy eating, nutrition, and weight loss sector accounting for over $702 billion dollars. Trends like paleo, keto, or low-sugar or low-fat diets - [Working Moms and a Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/working-moms-and-a-pandemic/) - It’s hard enough to be working moms under normal circumstances, let alone with a pandemic happening. With schools closed all around the country, there is a childcare crisis going on at home. Many moms are feeling their mental health dwindle and hang by a thread. The demands of parenting have increased. Many of us have - [It's Okay to Have Feelings: Vulnerability is Valid.](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/its-okay-to-have-feelings-vulnerability-is-valid/) - Everyone is tired. I think it’s safe to say that we live in a time that’s switching things up. “Normal” isn’t the right word anymore. I saw a post that said, “Relax. The world just needed to take a break.” I get the sentiment; this person was trying to be reassuring. That was a kind - [Challenges of Virtual Special Education](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/challenges-of-virtual-special-education/) - Just as many schools prepared for the end of the school year, most of the country entered lock-down. The pandemic upended education for children everywhere. Schools and students relied on distance learning and virtual classrooms to salvage the last quarter of the academic year. While virtual learning helped create safe conditions for children at risk - [Cooking and Your Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/cooking-and-your-mental-health/) - With all of this increased free time at home due to the pandemic, self-care is more important than ever. Cooking is a self-care method I have used to reduce my anxiety. Otherwise, I have too much time to think! In fact, reports show there are correlations between cooking abilities and mental health. For some people, - [Protecting the Mental Health of Children With Autism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/protecting-the-mental-health-of-children-with-autism/) - As a parent, it’s important to watch out for the mental health of children with autism. There is a significant overlap in the symptoms of the disorder, versus symptoms of mental illness. This makes it very difficult for parents to make distinctions. Children diagnosed with autism may see mental health professionals in some capacity. Mental - [Does Your Loved One Have PTSD?: Tips On How To Develop Your Relationship](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/does-your-loved-one-have-ptsd-tips-on-how-to-develop-your-relationship/) - About eight million adults have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the United States alone. For every 100 people, seven or eight will have PTSD at some point in their lives. Based on these statistics, you've probably met several people with PTSD, many ranging in severity. As a result, it is important to know how to - [Finding My Mental Strength During COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/finding-my-mental-strength-during-covid-19/) - Photo by Haley Powers on Unsplash Since the beginning of this COVID-19 pandemic, I've been working on finding my mental strength. It has felt like my world has halted. I've been in the house with people that I struggle to really like (I love my family but they can irk my soul), with an abundance - [Keep Kids Focused with the BrainDance](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/keep-kids-focused-with-the-braindance/) - During these times of COVID-19, everyone has become a bit restless. It is tempting to reach for our phones or another distraction when trying to complete our summer classes. Online meetings are less engaging, and it is easy to zone out and let your mind wander to what you will eat for dinner. Just from - [Handling Anxiety While You're Unemployed](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/handling-anxiety-while-youre-unemployed/) - So, you lost your job? Hey, me too! In fact, over 20 million people are also unemployed. You are not alone. I remember thinking to myself, “okay, this might last a month and things will get back to normal.” Well, as we all know it isn’t. While businesses are opening up, there are still many - [Relieve Anxiety With 7 Unique Tips](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/relieve-anxiety-with-7-unique-tips/) - Photo by freestocks on Unsplash Here you’ll find a list of seven unique tips to relieve anxiety that you haven’t heard before. Some of them are quick solutions for immediate relief and others will help reduce your anxious feelings for the long-term. The internet is filled with millions of tips that are supposed to - [Cognitive Reframing of Negative Thoughts](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/cognitive-reframing-of-negative-thoughts/) - Photo by Pine Watt on Unsplash Do you find yourself having anxiety and negative thoughts that you can’t shake? When faced with a decision do you have anxiety and think of the worst outcome? This is called catastrophizing, or cognitive distortion. During times of stress, it’s common to have negative thoughts more often. - [Taking Care of a Mental Health Patient During the Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/taking-care-of-a-mental-health-patient-during-the-pandemic/) - There’s no doubt this pandemic and being stuck in quarantine for three months has caused a lot of people’s mental health to go awry. However, for people who have to take care of people with this condition, it has to be a great challenge for them. What sort of challenges do they face as caregivers? - [Policing is a Mental Health Crisis](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/policing-is-a-mental-health-crisis/) - Right now the nation is in the grips of a tense and necessary conversation about police violence. Much of this conversation rightly focuses on race and racism in policing. However, it is important not to overlook the clear and drastic role that mental health plays in interactions with police. In a recent report “Overlooked in - [Mantras: A Simple yet Powerful Way to Cultivate Happiness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mantras-a-simple-yet-powerful-way-to-cultivate-happiness/) - If you or someone you love is going through a challenging time in life, it can be incredibly difficult to maintain a sense of calm and happiness. In the thick and sometimes debilitating moments of darkness, it can feel like there is nowhere to turn for peace and wellbeing. There are tools you can learn - [Breathing Techniques: When Anxiety Affects Your Breathing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/breathing-techniques-when-anxiety-affects-your-breathing/) - If you feel as if you are constantly in a state of worry, you might be suffering from some type of anxiety disorder. There are many kinds, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic attacks. As anxiety differs from person to person, we can all still agree that it can take a toll on - [Mental Health Issues in the Family](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mental-health-issues-in-the-family/) - When I was little, I thought my mother was eccentric - with the religion, the therapy, and the ongoing list of perceived physical ailments. She wasn't exactly like the other moms. How would I know any different? Then she had her first breakdown (in my lifetime). I was 12 years old. Spiraling She had stopped - [Shake It Off: The Natural Response to Relieve Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/shake-it-off-the-natural-response-to-relieve-anxiety/) - Personal Testimony Since early childhood, I have suffered from blood-injection-injury (BII) type phobia. The worst part about going in for my annual flu vaccination was the judgment. I would sit in the waiting room, anxiety would make my hands sweat, and I’d become antsy in my seat. Feelings of dread would sweep over my body - [Black Mental Health Matters](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/black-mental-health-matters/) - How opening this conversation in the Black community can help us What contributes to the mental health crisis in our community? When the Black community sees our people being attacked and murdered by the police or even by fellow citizens, it can be triggering for us to think about. There is a terrifying question - [Stretch and De-stress: The Yoga Position to Relax Your Anxious Muscle](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/stretch-and-de-stress-the-yoga-position-to-relax-your-anxious-muscle/) - Deep in your core, there is a muscle connecting your pelvis and torso that you have always had, but maybe never known about - your psoas (pronounced: so-as). There are two positions a muscle can be in: contracted/ shortened or relaxed/lengthened. Since you cannot see your psoas, it can be difficult to understand how - [Childhood Trauma: You Are Not Alone, Your Feelings Matter, and We Can Heal Together](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/childhood-trauma-you-are-not-alone-your-feelings-matter-and-we-can-heal-together/) - Childhood trauma is formed in many ways; from using demeaning language to physical abuse. Studies have shown that children exposed to negative child-rearing practices tend to be anti-social, aggressive, and commit violent crimes later in life. Some may say that Millennials are the “Snowflake” generation because they refuse to yell at and spank their children. - [000 Episode: Step Up For Mental Health Podcast Preview](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/000-episode-step-up-for-mental-health-podcast-preview/) - Step Up For Mental Health® sharing an intro clip on upcoming programming. Stay-tuned.  Where to Listen: Google Podcasts Mental Talk Podcast: Mental Talk is run by Step Up For Mental Health (A peer-to-peer nonprofit) and hosted by Adrienne McCue. It's all about mental health topics of the day, and trying to wake up consciousness that - [001 Episode: Moving Into Calm in the End During Times of COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/001-episode-moving-into-calm-in-the-end-during-times-of-covid-19/) - Step Up For Mental Health's Adrienne McCue talks about past stress before the calm. A reflection of moving out of a difficult chapter in one's life, even when you can't see a way out, there will always be a change that will be teachable moments.  Where to Listen: Google Podcasts Mental Talk Podcast: Mental Talk - [002 Episode: Mental Talk With Camesha Jones Founder of Sista Afya Community Mental Wellnes [Podcast]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/002-episode-mental-talk-with-camesha-jones-founder-of-sista-afya-community-mental-wellnes-podcast/) - Mental Talk (Host: Adrienne McCue) sat down with Camesha L. Jones, Founder of Sista Afya Community Mental Wellness to talk about mental health in the African American community -- particularly women of color and how they are copying as natural caregivers under COVID-19. We also dive into childhood trauma (ACE) and why sigma needs to - [Childhood Depression: What Parents Should Know? (Depression Series)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/childhood-depression-what-parents-should-know-depression-series/) - When people think about depression, they don’t often picture a child struggling with such an emotionally devastating disorder. Some may even forget that depression can occur at any age, starting as young as childhood and early teenage years. Why is this? Well as adults, most people tend to look back at their own years with - [Adulthood Depression: Symptoms, Risks, and Coping Skills (Depression Series)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/adulthood-depression-symptoms-risks-and-coping-skills/) - Depression is a word that is often used in today’s society to express feelings of being “down” or sad. However, major depression is a serious disorder marked by symptoms that can cause a severe disruption in one’s life. This is because unlike just feeling sad at times, symptoms of depression can last for extended periods - [Geriatric Depression: Risks and Impacts on Caregivers (Depression Series)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/geriatric-depression-risks-and-impacts-on-caregivers-depression-series/) - It is well known that aging comes with many stressors. The elderly are often subjected to stressful situations such as prolonged isolation and sadness. Also, they often have to deal with declining physical and/or cognitive health as they grow increasingly older. Some may not be able to function daily without the help of a family - ["Mundane" Lives Can Still Be Affected by Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mundane-lives-can-still-be-affected-by-mental-health/) - This blog is for people who are feeling some type of way because of their day-to-day tasks, whether that be feeling anxiety while waiting for public transportation or feeling a deep depression when you are unable to ace that big exam. This blog is for the people who are struggling with mental health, yet do - [Be Kind to Yourself This Winter](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/be-kind-to-yourself-this-winter/) - Winter can be difficult for all of us, especially for those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It is estimated that 10 million people suffer from SAD in the United States alone, which is a type of depression brought on by the season whose symptoms include feeling depressed, feelings of hopelessness, low energy, loss - [How to Talk to your Parents as an Adult](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-talk-to-your-parents-as-an-adult/) - Looking back on the year 2019, I thought it would be a good idea to share some of my favorite advice from my counselor. I believe that this is something that any person with parents may relate to, but I think this will ring true in the ears of any young person coming into - [Why Telling Children "You Can Be Anything You Want" is Important](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-telling-children-you-can-be-anything-you-want-is-important/) - I’m currently home with my four-year-old niece. Today, I was on facetime with a male friend who said he was playing video games. She instantly got upset, responding “I can’t play video games because I’m a girl.” Wait, wait, wait. What the fuckery? I immediately told her “You can do anything you want.” And she - [Radio Interview: Step Up For Mental Health on News From the Service Entrance with Mario Smith](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/radio-interview-step-up-for-mental-health-on-news-from-the-service-entrance-with-mario-smith/) - Step Up For Mental Health's President and Executive Director Adrienne McCue was interviewed by Mario Smith on "News From the Service Entrance with Mario Smith" on Lumpen Radio. The topics ranged from questions about Step Up For Mental Health mission and programs, important topics on mental health care in Chicago and it's community; along with - [Healthy Eating Week: Tips to Eating Healthy Without Sacrificing Your Wallet or Your Tastebuds](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/healthy-eating-week-tips-to-eating-healthy-without-sacrificing-your-wallet-or-your-tastebuds/) - To celebrate Healthy Eating Week, I’d like to write down a few tips that I’ve learned concerning nutrition. As a college student, it can be extremely difficult to keep up with eating healthy and maintaining an active lifestyle. When on campus, we are mainly restricted by what is on campus. I do think that the - [How to Deal with Friendships While Dealing with Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-to-deal-with-friendships-while-dealing-with-mental-health/) - Two weeks ago, I talked about creating boundaries with our relationships. Since then, I have participated in a wellness check with some of my friends. We talked about different things that we all deal with, ways that our friends have helped us in the past, and things we wish our friends knew (not talking - [The Importance of Knowing the Difference Between "Yes" "No" and "Maybe"](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-importance-of-knowing-the-difference-between-yes-no-and-maybe/) - “Yes” “No” “Maybe” Three words that I am proud to have in the English dictionary. Three words that I am happy that I have the ability to use, being aware that there are many who are unable to use those words for a variety of reasons. When spending time with a mixed cultural couple, I - [How Support (or the Lack of) Can Affect Those with Disabilities](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/how-support-or-the-lack-of-can-affect-those-with-disabilities/) - Living with a disability can be hard. Not only can it be hard for the obvious reasons but living with a disability comes with its own trials and tribulations that many do not think of. While I cannot speak for all people with disabilities (because all disabilities have their own challenges), I can speak for - [Why You Should Always Define Relationships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/why-you-should-always-define-relationships/) - It’s human nature to want intimacy. We all want someone whether that be friends, family, a romantic relationship, ourselves, maybe even all of the above. However, I do think it is important to understand the nature of our relationships and in what way we expect them to function. Friendships mean different things to each and - [I Don't Know If I Want Kids and That's Okay](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/i-dont-know-if-i-want-kids-and-thats-okay/) - I don’t know what I want in my life. It’s not because I’m indecisive. It’s not because I’m not motivated enough. It’s because we tend to believe what we’re taught. That’s not to say that the cycle can’t be broken, but only to say that breaking it can be difficult. All of my life I’ve - [The Connection between Mental Health and Physical Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-connection-between-mental-health-and-physical-health/) - I find it funny that we must justify our reasons for going to counseling. ‘Anxiety won’t kill you.’ However, when someone goes to a doctor, we don’t question it. Of course, you would go to the doctor in order to heal. Why deal with that pain if you don’t have to? No one should have - [The Talk: Mental Benefits on Your Sexual Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-talk-mental-benefits-on-your-sexual-health/) - This week, I’d like to discuss something that you may or may not have already talked about—sex. Whether you haven’t had it, you have had it, had too little, or too much, having this conversation is HEALTHY and it shouldn’t be ignored or put off. When you haven’t had this conversation, it can feel like - [Seeking Out Counseling in a College Setting](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/seeking-out-counseling-in-a-college-setting/) - After seeing the trauma that others have gone through, it can be hard to be forthcoming about your own problems. Even after going through trauma yourself, it can be hard to ask for help. We’re constantly telling ourselves it could’ve been worse, especially college students. We see our peers in clubs, excelling academically, and adulting - [High School and Coping with a Mental Illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/high-school-and-coping-with-a-mental-illness/) - They tell you before your freshman year that "the next four years are going to be the best time of your life." When you have a mental illness, all the joy in your life is clouded. You can't completely see all the happiness you are capable of because of the fog you must walk through - [Mental Talk Video Series: New YouTube Creator By Delcie](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mental-talk-introduction-video-delcie/) - Step Up For Mental Health is pleased to introduce our latest YouTube Content Creator Delcie McCord, who will be joining our Mental Talk Video Series. Delcie will be talking about her personal journey dealing with mental health in her life. She also will be interviewing other peers to tell their stories about how mental health - [Press Release: BetterHelp Partnership Helping Families Have Access to Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/betterhelp-partnership-helping-families/) - Step Up For Mental Health Partners with BetterHelp to Support Families with Access to Professional Counseling Chicago, May 20, 2019 -- Step Up For Mental Health has partnered with BetterHelp to assist more families and their caregivers in need to aid in affordable professional online counseling. When location, time or cost are significant factors to - [Women in History: A Personal Mental Health Story](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/women-in-history-a-personal-mental-health-story/) - This month is International Women’s History Month and March 8 is International Women's Day, where we celebrate women achievements throughout history and across nations. I’m always thinking of ways to talk about mental health and since women are affected more than men regards to mental health, this topic is important to me. First of all, - [I have ADHD and It Makes Me Awesome](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/i-have-adhd-and-it-makes-me-awesome/) - For me, receiving an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis was a clarifying moment in my life. I was 27 years old in a therapist’s office, initially for Situational Depression. We were through the storm and ready to talk about more everyday things when she asked me if anyone ever suggested that I have ADHD. Which - [Children and Trauma: The Effects of the Border Policies of the United States](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/children-and-trauma-effects-border-policies-united-states/) - Since early May 2, 342 children have been separated from their parents after crossing the Southern U.S. border, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Separating children from their caregivers has catastrophic effects on their mental health. The UN calls the practice a human rights violation. Because trauma is complex and hard to understand, I reached - [Angelina Spicer Talks About Postpartum Depression [Video]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/angelina-spicer-talks-postpartum-depression/) - As we kick off Minority Mental Health Month we like to educate our readers on diverse topics, which can help families understand the stigma surrounding mental health. We are especially keen on sharing real stories from individuals who might be going through a personal challenge or can be relatable to others, realizing they are not alone by - [Mental Health Step Up: "Check on Your Strong Friend"](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/check-on-your-strong-friend/) - The phrase that went viral a few weeks ago after we lost some pretty amazing people. The phrase that highlights that people who seem put together on the outside, may actually be breaking and screaming in the inside. The phrase that is trying to break the stigma of asking for help and the stigma of - [Postpartum Depression: A Survivor's Story](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/postpartum-depression-a-survivors-story/) - One in five women will experience Postpartum Depression. In my doula training, we all discussed that we think that number might be higher, closer to one in four. Postpartum Depression is a condition that people are generally aware of but few understand. I experienced Postpartum Depression after I gave birth to my daughter. No one warned - [On The Right Road with Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/on-the-right-road-mental-health/) - At work, bored, I took a bunch of personality quizzes online. One of the quizzes was about gratitude. I don’t really think of myself as a person who (sadly) is very appreciative of who I have in my life, what I have in my life and where I am in my life. But, I ranked - [My Mental Health Journey](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/my-mental-health-journey/) - I am Jamie, a partner, a mother, sister, a daughter, and a doula as well as a blogger and podcaster and rec league basketball player. I wear many hats and that’s how I like it, always on the go! I am new to Step Up for Mental Health, and here is my story: When Adrienne - [May is Mental Health Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/may-is-mental-health-month/) - For me personally, I feel as if every day of every month is revolving around Mental Health as I try to live my best quality of life with Bipolar 1 Disorder. However, we're lucky that we get a month designated towards celebrating and embracing us living with mental illness! I want to bring up Mental - [Reflecting on Mental Health Education](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/reflecting-mental-health-education/) - As we educate for Mental Health Month in May we continue to move our programs forward by helping families. I want to reflect on a personal note of 2012—of the death of my mother in January who suffered from a mental health illness from the time I was born. The catalyst of Step Up For - [The Medication Dilemma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-medication-dilemma/) - I have a basket next to my bed, which is next to my apartment door and it keeps my keys, TV remote, current books I’m reading, my AirPods and my medication. Usually, there are three bottles next to my bed. The medications I take at night, in the morning and during the day. Over the - [The Art of Saying No](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/the-art-of-saying-no/) - Growing up, my swim coach always said, “Become comfortable with being uncomfortable.” It’s a phrase, for me, that has translated beyond the pool and into my everyday life. Recently, for me, that phrase has gone hand in hand with saying no. Life throws so many choices, decisions, options, and opportunities at you and it can - [Finding a Fitting Job While Having a Mental Illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/finding-fitting-job-while-having-mental-illness/) - To me, it feels like a common question that is asked and inadvertently has been set to “define” me is, “what do you do?” The question is always in reference to a job. Although, I could just say, “I wake up every morning and go to sleep every night.” But instead, I scrape together some - [Bumps in the Bipolar Road](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/bumps-bipolar-road/) - I have gone through numerous treatment programs. I have been in-patient, 24/7 care in a mental health hospital with treatment around the clock, daily groups, meal times, check-ins, medications and more. I have been in Partial Hospitalization Programs, day programs with lunchtime, groups, social workers, therapists, and psychiatrists. I have been in Intensive Outpatient Programs, - [Managing Bipolar Disorder While Leading a Healthy Life](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/managing-bipolar-healthy-life/) - The “PLEASE” skill in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy is one that is near and dear to my heart. PLEASE is an acronym and it’s the emotion regulation pillar of DBT. The acronym is as follows: P – Treat Physical L – Illness (treat physical illness) E – Balanced Eating A – Avoid Mood-Altering Drugs S – - [Validating My Invalidation on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/validating-mental-health/) - Validation is so important to have strong mental health. I believe that validation can generally be thought of as to come from a person, maybe a spouse, sibling, parent or friend. But, I believe that validation can also come from participating in a class, activity, sport, job, or chore. I also believe it can come - [The Aging Population: Support for Caregivers of Alzheimer's Patients](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/support-for-caregivers-alzheimers-patients/) - In 1983, President Ronald Reagan designated November as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and National Family Caregivers Month. This is a great month to consider important questions about the progressive disease that affects 5 million Americans, and to appreciate the work of the caregivers who care for someone with the illness. Alzheimer’s disease, according to the - [Journey at Step Up For Mental Health in 2017](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/year-in-review-2017/) - Our Journey at Step Up For Mental Health in 2017 was the year in which many changes happened at Step Up For Mental Health. We changed our name that was clear to our mission. We started our Helpline to help individuals find local mental health services and we started our mental health programs where we - [Caring Gift Ideas for the Caregiver on Your List](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/gift-ideas-for-the-caregiver/) - Caring for others is part of what makes the holidays so special. So it only makes sense at this special time of year to recognize those who care for society's most vulnerable members. With that in mind, here's a look at some great gift ideas for caregivers. Each can make the season a bit more - [Important Stories on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/important-stories-mental-health/) - Our stories shape us, define us and inspire us! What better way than to share important personal stories from families in different communities regarding the impact of mental health. Step Up For Mental Health goals are to tell real stories that don't show stigma, but shares strength. If you are a person who is dealing - [Mental Health Month: 5 Important Topics](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mental-health-month-5-topics/) - May is Mental Health Awareness Month so I want to first talk to families all over the nation to reflect on what great things you have accomplished in 2016. If you are dealing with a mental health disorder such as depression, schizophrenia or anxiety, know that living day-by-day and making small changes can make all ## Pages - [Staff](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/staff/) - Meet Our Team Our brilliant team of staff and volunteers give their all to the mission and the community they serve—from our helpline heroes and peer support facilitators, to our marketing specialists and content editors, and so many others. We couldn't do all that we do without our team of mental health advocates. They are - [Google Career Certificates Scholarships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/step-up-for-assistance-program/google-career-certificates-scholarships/) - Step Up For Mental Health® has teamed up with #GrowWithGoogle to support the individuals and families we serve in learning key digital skills that will help them land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! We are giving 500 scholarships to candidates that have the drive, to start a new job of their dreams - [Press](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/newsroom/press/) - Step Up for Mental Health® shares press about what we do throughout the year and news stories that touch the lives of families and underserved individuals in media. As peers who have been where you are in the mental health community, we hope sharing stories of hope, inspiration, and courage can help one family at - [Step Up Program Fundraiser](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/donate/fundraising/) - Our brilliant Champion Ambassadors, donors, and fundraisers join us in supporting our mental health mission to raise money for Step Up For Mental Health®. They run marathons, bike, walk, raise money for their birthdays, have dinner fundraisers, and more — to help families and their caregivers have the resources they need to thrive. Donate To - [Privacy Policy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/privacy-policy/) - This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which Step Up For Mental Health collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the https://www.stepformentalhealth.org, and http://www.bisocialnetwork.com website(s) ("Site"). Gathering of Personally-Identifying Information Certain visitors to Step Up For Mental Health websites choose to interact with stepupformentalhealth.org in ways that require Step - [Programs](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/) - Step Up For Mental Health® mission and goals are to assist families in ways the whole family might need assistance. We are committed to helping meet the challenges families are facing with regard to peer support, finding professional support and providing access to services. Below are our current programs and detailed information. Step Up Assistance - [Helpline Support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/helpline/) - We Help You Find Local Services in Your Area Welcome! You took the first step in learning more about options for support when dealing with the needs of a loved one, your issues, or as a caregiver looking for answers. We are a small peer-to-peer nonprofit, but a mighty one with partnerships and known resources - [Virtual Bike, Walk, Run For Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/virtual-bike-walk-run/) - Join Step Up For Mental Health Virtual Bike, Walk, or Run Race. We are raising funds for families with mental health-related issues. What is a Virtual Bike, Walk or Run Race? What is it? It’s individuals, people or teams, getting out there on your bike, or walk to your local path, or even running (if - [Mental Health First Aid Training Certification](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/mhfa/) - Discover How You Can Support Your Family and Community by Becoming a Mental Health First Aider! Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a - [Donate Now](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/donate/) - Step Up For Mental Health®'s Mission in Supporting Individuals, Children, and Families. Donate or Create Your Own Fundraiser Set up your own fundraiser and rally your team for Step Up For Mental Health! You can be creative or challenge your friends or family to participate in things like a scavenger hunt, book club or - [Give](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/giving-back/) - With your support, we can change the world of mental health, one family at a time. It is our mission and commitment to you that we will always use your donation for the purpose for which it was given. Step Up For Mental Health® is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible within - [Step Up For Kids Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/step-up-for-kids-program/) - Volunteer to Read a Book - YouTube Video Reading to kids is a joy and we want you to help us expand this program. Step Up For Mental Health® wants to talk more about emotions and why our feelings are important for overall better mental health for kids! You will see new updated videos on - [Financials and Annual Reports](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/annual-report/) - Not-For-Profit Status: Step Up For Mental Health® is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization incorporated in the state of Ilinois. Our Federal tax ID # is 80-0834004. All donations to Step Up For Mental Health® are tax-deductible. Downloadable tax information and forms: 2024 Annual Report 2023 Annual Report 2022 Annual Report 2021 Annual Report 2020 Annual - [Local Classes and Webinar Events](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/step-up-for-assistance-program/local-classes-webinars/) - Education and Outreach: (Social Distancing) Adult Learning Connect with our on-demand, live online webinars, and in-person Step Up Peer Training Circles around the web Chicago, created to help adult learners advance their skills in a fun and educational way. Topics will range from Technology, Finance, Career Prep, and Mindfulness & Meditation. This is a part - [Media](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/newsroom/media/) - Check out all that Step Up For Mental Health® has been doing throughout the year! We love to expand our programs and partners with companies like Grow with Google, Give Lively, PWC, and more! We thank you for supporting us this year and beyond! Please visit our Instagram page to stay updated on our outreach - [Step Up For Kids and Program Wishlist](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/donate/kids-wishlist/) - We know that mental health issues in the home affect children of all ages. Parents who are dealing with a mood disorder themselves, are more likely to have poverty issues that are a direct line to their kids learning or having the tools needed to be successful and get good grades. Let's help break the cycle of poverty + mental health. As a kid, teen and - [Partners & Sponsors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/giving-back/partners-sponsors/) -  From time to time, we will connect with Partners and Sponsors to help us grow and who believe in our mission. We couldn't do all we do or want to do without the generous donations—whether it's software, grants or monetary gifts. Our Partners Findhelp.org provides a free search tool through our partnership with - [Volunteer/Intern Roles](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/volunteer-intern-roles/) - [Contact Us](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/contact-us/) - Join us as we work on making a difference in mental health education and the many issues surrounding families dealing with the impact of mental illness. We would love to hear from you. Step Up For Mental Health® Phone: (773) 273-9422 Please mail all inquires and check donations to: Step Up For Mental Health® PO - [Step Up Peer Support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/step-up-for-assistance-program/peer-support/) - Local and Online Peer-to-Peer Support Step Up For Mental Health’s goal is clear: we believe peer support saves lives! We have support groups in a virtual or in-person setting for people who are dealing with a host of issues from lived experiences, caregivers, young adults, seniors, people coping with disabilities and chronic pain diseases that - [Step Up For Assistance Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/step-up-for-assistance-program/) - Find Local Services for Families in your Area In times of stress, it can be difficult to get help or know where to turn. Step Up For Mental Health will be that support system in a time of great need. Contact our helpline and let us assist you in finding services in your area. We - [Newsroom](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/newsroom/) - News and Info This is the place to learn about current news and activities Step Up For Mental Health is doing in the community. Learn about important topics and campaigns we are working on about mental health education, advocacy work and programs assisting families and their caregivers. Press Releases Step Up For Mental Health® News - [Mental Health Service Providers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mh-service-providers/) - https://youtu.be/U_EgrnFFZOs Directory of Mental Health Services and Facilities We believe in educating the public about mental health-related services. Below are local and national mental health service providers to help families find resources and support. The websites on this page are not affiliated with Step Up For Mental Health® but are in line with our missions - [Adrienne McCue](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/volunteer-board-of-directors/adrienne-mccue/) - President & Executive Director, Founder Adrienne McCue is the President and Executive Director of Step Up For Mental Health®. Adrienne has been passionate about mental health since, as a young girl, she helped her mother cope with a serious mental health disorder. A proven leader for over 13 years in advocacy work, developing strategy partners, - [Volunteer](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/giving-back/volunteer/) - Volunteer Information and Application Learn more about volunteering for Step Up For Mental Health® and our mental health programs.  - [#GivingForward on #GivingTuesday](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/giving-forward-on-giving-tuesday/) - Media Release Step Up For Mental Health® #GivingForward Campaign is raising money for our Step Up For Kids Program Chicago, IL, November 1, 2021 - Join Step Up For Mental Health® as a Champion Ambassador by raising funds for mental health-related issues. Step Up For Mental Health® is raising money for our - [Board of Directors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/volunteer-board-of-directors/) - [Ivania Delgado, Psy.D., MS, MSW](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/volunteer-board-of-directors/ivania-delgado/) - Secretary, Member of the Board of Directors Dr. Ivania Delgado has 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in both public and private sectors in Miami-Dade County providing mental health services. Ivania's most recent clinical experience includes working with foster-care youth who were negatively impacted by commercial sexual exploitation and human - [Mission](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/mission/) - “To educate, fight causes and change minds about mental health and its impact on families.” Mission Statement: Step Up For Mental Health’s mission is to support, educate and provide services to empower families living with the challenges of mental health disorders. We do this by providing a safe place to share stories and find support - [Team Profile](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/staff/team-profile/) - [abcf-staff-single id="6517"] - [Join the Conversation on Mental Health!](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/signup/) - /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */ Subscribe * indicates required Email Address * First Name * Last Name * Address Address Line 2 City State/Province/Region Postal - [In Media](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/newsroom/press/in-media/) - Step Up for Mental Health® shares news stories or key information that touch the lives of families and underserved individuals in media. As peers who have been where you are in the mental health community, we hope sharing stories of hope, inspiration and courage can help one family at a time heal. https://youtu.be/8gm-lNpzU4g Learning About - [Events](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/) - [Become a Champion Ambassador Team Member For Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/giving-back/champion-ambassador/) - Want to share your story and help others understand and support mental health? Join our new peer program as a Champion Ambassador! Volunteer, advocate, and start a fundraiser by helping raise funds for our mission and programs. Apply Now - Champion Ambassador Join The Team. Give Back. Become a Champion Ambassador. Want to share - [#GivingForward Year-End Challenge](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/giving-back/givingtuesday/) - Step Up For Mental Health® has joined the #GivingTuesday movement, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. #GivingTuesday will be held on Tuesday, November 28, 2017, and we have decided to pay it forward block-by-block until the end of the year handing out our 'Swag Bags' to families - [Small Grants Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/programs/small-grants-program/) - Step Up Small Grants Program We know that sometimes the moment of giving up or pushing forward to fight another day is the difference between an hour, day, week or month. We understand where you are and want to help you move forward to success. That’s why we believe helping when you need it most. - [What We Do](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/what-we-do/) - Step Up For Mental Health®'s goal is immense but simple: support families dealing with mental health issues. But what does this entail? We know that many people are affected by mental health: children, parents, siblings, communities, spouses and beyond. We also know there are unique topics surrounding mental health disorders that are often misunderstood. Step - [Lynne Jordan](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/volunteer-board-of-directors/lynne-jordan/) - Treasurer, Member of the Board of Directors Lynne is a singer, writer, actress, and bandleader, and has fronted her own group, Lynne Jordan, and the Shivers, for more than 20 years, providing entertainment to audiences across the globe. As a bandleader on the charity event circuit, Lynne is no stranger to the giant effort it - [Vision | Values](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/vision-values/) - Vision Statement One day, families dealing with mental health issues—whether personally or as a caregiver--will have access to support, services and educational tools to understand how to move positively and boldly into the future of a happy life—without fear or stigma. Our Values Inside Knowledge: We know that mental health does not only affect the - [About Us](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/about/) - Step Up For Mental Health®: Changing minds about mental health and its impact on families Step Up For Mental Health® is a peer-to-peer advocacy group providing support, assistance, and education. First, we support individuals dealing with a mental health disorder. Secondly, we assist family members​ caring for someone with a mental illness and, thirdly, we - [Client Testimonials](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/testimonials/) - Creating change in family's lives, in small ways, that delivers the greatest impact. "I suffer from anxiety and depression and I am a first-generation college student from a family of minimal means. Decisions about what to study and what college to go to are big decisions with great expenses, all-the-while not knowing all of the - [BetterHelp: Online Professional Counseling Partner](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/betterhelp/) - Step Up For Mental Health® has partnered with BetterHelp to assist more families and their caregivers in need to aid in affordable professional online counseling. When location, time or cost are significant factors to wellness or when trying to gain access to mental health. You have options via text, chat, voice, video, and mobile app - [Calendar](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/calendar/) - [Blog](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/blog/) ## Posts - [seedprod](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/seedprod/sp-mm/) - Step Up For Mental Health Educating. Fighting Causes. Changing minds. Step Up For Mental Health is down for some maintenance, it will be up by 12 a.m. CST on Monday, 12/6/2025 or sooner. If you would like to donate for Year-End Goals Please Choose Your Impact: Make a quick, one-time gift: Text “StepUpGiveNow” to 44-321 ## Jobs - [Volunteer | Intern: Peer Support Facilitator (Helpline)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/job/volunteer-intern-peer-support-facilitator-helpline/) - Step Up For Mental Health’s mission is to support, educate, and provide services to empower families living with the challenges of mental health disorders is seeking a Volunteer Intern, Peer Support Facilitator (PSF) who is open to working with individuals and families who want a flexible schedule to provide peer support to clients who reach ## Events - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (2 Day Class: Feb 26-27, 2026)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-2-day-class-feb-26-27-2026/) - This is a 2-day class is on Thursday and Friday from 10: 00 a.m. - 1:30 pm CST both days. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (2 Day Class: Sept 18-19, 2025)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-2-day-class-sept-18-19-2025/) - This is a 2-day class from 10: 00 a.m. - 1:30 pm CST both days. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (2 Day Class: Jan 29-30, 2026)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-2-day-class-jan-29-30-2026/) - This is a 2-day class is on Thursday and Friday from 10: 00 a.m. - 1:30 pm CST both days. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (2 Day Class: Nov 13-14, 2025)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-2-day-class-nov-13-14-2025/) - This is a 2-day class is on Thursday and Friday from 10: 00 a.m. - 1:30 pm CST both days. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (2 Day Class: May 29-30, 2025)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-2-day-class-may-29-30-2025/) - This is a 2-day class from 10: 00 a.m. - 1:30 pm CST both days. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (2 Day Class: July 24-25, 2025)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-2-day-class-july-24-25-2025/) - This is a 2-day class from 10: 00 a.m. - 1:30 pm CST both days. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential - [Community Partner: Livestream: Intro to Google AI for Small and Medium-size business (SMBs)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-partner-livestream-intro-to-google-ai-for-small-and-medium-size-business-smbs/) - Take the next steps in understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI) which can be a powerful technology that can help simplify business tasks and create new opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits and consultants. If you are a beginner in AI and how to use it, this webinar is for you! Many small business owners are eager to - [Exclusive Community Partner: Livestream: Intro to Google AI for Small and Medium-size business (SMBs)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/exclusive-community-partner-livestream-intro-to-google-ai-for-small-and-medium-size-business-smbs/) - Take the next steps in understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI) which can be a powerful technology that can help simplify business tasks and create new opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits and consultants. If you are a beginner in AI and how to use it, this webinar is for you! Many small business owners are eager to - [Community Series - Mental Health Book Club: What Happened to You? by Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-series-mental-health-book-club-what-happened-to-you-by-bruce-perry-oprah-winfrey/) - Join Our Online Book Club! Join Ivania Delgado, Social Work Educator and Board Member and engage in meaning discussions about trauma and healing in a supportive community. Let’s read, learn, and step up for mental health together! Presented by: Step Up For Mental Health Book: What Happened to You? by Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Certificate Scholarships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-certificate-scholarships/) - Boost Productivity and Enhance Your Work in 10-Weeks Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with Google AI Essentials scholarship and upgrade your skills to help speed up daily tasks, make more informed decisions, and develop new ideas and content for a new business, moving into - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (Nov 8, 2024)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-nov-8-2024/) - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally, and show empathy and to give reassurance to - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (Oct 25, 2024)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-oct-25-2024/) - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally, and show empathy and to give reassurance to - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (Sept 27, 2024)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-sept-27-2024/) - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally, and show empathy and to give reassurance to - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (May 3)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-career-certificates-scholarships-may-3/) - Be Ready in 3-6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Peer Training Circle) - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (May 10)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-career-certificates-scholarships-may-10/) - Be Ready in 3-6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Peer Training Circle) - [Bi+ Talk: Peer Support Group (April 24)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/bi-talk-peer-support-group-self-care-with-self-love-april-4-264/) - Good Mental Health is all about talking, sharing, and listening to one another. Whether you identify as bisexual, pansexual, or any other non-monosexual orientation, this safe space is for you. Our group discussions are confidential, respectful, and non-judgmental. What better way to share life experiences in a supportive peer and topic-led peer support group? Topics - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (April 25)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-career-certificates-scholarships-april-25/) - Be Ready in 3-6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Peer Training Circle) - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (April 19)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-career-certificates-scholarships-april-19/) - Be Ready in 3-6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Peer Training Circle) - [Bi+ Talk: Peer Support Group: Self Care with Self Love (April 3)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/bi-talk-peer-support-group-self-care-with-self-love-april-3/) - Good Mental Health is all about talking, sharing, and listening to one another. What better way to share life experiences in a supportive peer and topic-led peer support group? Topics will range from work, family, caregivers and life balance, meditation, self-care, stress and depression, and more. Bi+ Talk is for the bisexual community that believes - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (March 26)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-career-certificates-scholarships-march-26/) - Be Ready in 3-6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Peer Training Circle) - [Bi+ Talk: Peer Support Group: Bisexual Women and Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/bi-talk-peer-support-group-bisexual-women-and-mental-health/) - We are showing our support for women during March Bi+ Health Month! We believe that connecting with each other and sharing our lived experiences in a confirming and non-judgmental peer group is the best way to do so. So, we invite you to join us on the third Wednesday of this month for an hour-long - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Workshop: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (March 29)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-workshop-google-career-certificates-scholarships-march-29/) - Be Ready in 3-6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Workshop. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Peer Training Circle) - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (Jan 19, 2024)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-jan-19-2024/) - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally, and show empathy and to give reassurance to - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (Nov 3, 2023)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-nov-3-2023/) - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally, and show empathy and to give reassurance to - [Community Partner: PERDIDO a Mental Health Red Carpet Event For Black and Latino Men (10/28)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-partner-perdido-a-mental-health-red-carpet-event-for-black-and-latino-men-10-28/) - CHICAGO, October 10, 2021 — Join Step Up For Mental Health for an eye-opening Red Carpet film premiere and mental health event hosted by celebrity host – Antwon Tanner. This event will help eradicate the stigma of mental illness and therapy for black and Latino men! Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 28th at 5:00 - [Community Partner: Tips on New Digital Tools: Calendar, Gmail and Tasks and Become a Better Communicator in the AI Age](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-partner-tips-on-new-digital-tools-calendar-gmail-and-tasks-and-become-a-better-communicator-in-the-ai-age/) - Want to learn some of the latest digital tools in the Google ecosystem? Interested in learning more about Bard AI? Digital tools to help you communicate better at school, work or landing that next job? Learn how to use Google Calendar, Gmail, Tasks and Bard AI to share important dates, reminders, and events with others. - [Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training Certification Training (October 6, 2023)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-first-aid-mhfa-training-certification-training-october-6-2023/) - Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an early intervention public education program. It is an evidence-based training created by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing designed to teach adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally, and show empathy and to give reassurance to - [AETNA Community Partner: Back to School Health & Resource Fair at CHICAT](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/aetna-community-partner-back-to-school-health-resource-fair-at-chicat/) - Join us for the Back to School Health & Resource Fair at Chicago Center for Arts & Technology (CHICAT). Step Up For Mental Health® will be there as a Non-profit Outreach Vendor, handing out swag bags filled with school supplies, self-care items, and mental health resources for families of all ages. Our partners AETNA Better - [Community Event: Annual Back to School Family Fair [Belmont Cragin Neighborhood]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-event-annual-back-to-school-family-fair-belmont-cragin-neighborhood/) - We invite you to this year's Back to School Fair at Belmont Cragin neighborhood on the northwest side of Chicago. State Representative Lilian Jiménez and State Senator Omar Aquino organized this event for the 4th House District. Step Up For Mental Health® will be there, passing our swag bags with journals and other self-help tools - [Partner Event: International Women's Day Health & Resource Fair](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/partner-event-international-womens-day-health-resource-fair/) - Join Step Up For Mental Health and other community organizations where we celebrate Women leaders supporting families throughout Chicagoland at the International Women's Day Health & Resource Fair. We will showcase programs, activities, and more for a family day of fun! Local Organizations: Casa Esperanza Project A Beautiful Mind Pillows to Pads Aetna Better Health - [Partner Webinar: Innovative Mental Health Care: Programs Supporting Local Communities](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/partner-webinar-innovative-mental-health-care-programs-supporting-local-communities/) - Mental health is a crucial aspect of whole-person health. Millions of Americans seek out mental health care each year, and almost 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness during their lifetime. Mental health treatment can help many people achieve their full health potential, but obstacles ranging from mental health stigma to lack of resources - [Lunch & Learn: Step Up For Mental Health #MLK Day of Service Event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-step-up-for-mental-health-mlk-day-of-service-event/) - We are supporting #MLKDay with our partners Americorps and our day of service; we are supporting families all year long and particularly Caregivers! We are also continuing to focus on youth mental health issues affecting many children with anxiety and depression. Learn about Step Up For Mental Health® and what we do to support families - [Watch Party Community Event: Watch Party: Hunger, Nutrition, and Health Conference](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/watch-party-community-event-watch-party-hunger-nutrition-and-health-conference/) - Today the Biden-Harris Administration will host the historic White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health — tune in live with Step Up For Mental Health®, starting at 11:30 am CST. You can also join the dialogue by sharing your thoughts on Twitter using the hashtag #WHConfHungerHealth. We will be talking about how we can - [Community Workshop: Partner Digital Series - Navigate a Career Change with Confidence](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-partner-digital-series-navigate-a-career-change-with-confidence/) - Are you planning a career transition? This beginner-level workshop will help you gain clarity on how your past work experience and skills can transfer to a new role and will show you how to highlight what you have to offer a new employer. By making clear, informed decisions about your next steps, you will be - [Peer Support Group: Reproductive Rights and Mental Health Discussion Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-reproductive-rights-and-mental-health-discussion-series/) - Step Up For Mental Health's goal is to have a safe space for topics in society that are having a toll on communities dealing with added stress, anxiety, and depression. We feel the Roe vs Wade reversal is an important topic for discussion. Please note: This is a safe space for persons who are feeling - [Peer Support Group: Reproductive Rights and Mental Health Discussion Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-reproductive-rights-and-mental-health-discussion-series-7-26/) - Step Up For Mental Health's goal is to have a safe space for topics in society that are having a toll on communities dealing with added stress, anxiety, and depression. We feel the Roe vs Wade reversal is an important topic for discussion. Please note: This is a safe space for persons who are feeling - [Peer Support Group: Reproductive Rights and Mental Health Discussion Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-reproductive-rights-and-mental-health-discussion-series-7-18/) - Step Up For Mental Health's goal is to have a safe space for topics in society that are having a toll on communities dealing with added stress, anxiety, and depression. We feel the Roe vs Wade reversal is an important topic for discussion. Please note: This is a safe space for persons who are feeling - [Peer Support Group: Depression and Utilizing Self-Care](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-depression-and-utilizing-self-care/) - Join us as we discuss the effects of depression and different methods of self-care that we may find helpful and meaningful. When we share our ideas and experiences with others, we can create a sense of understanding and learn new approaches to self-care. With this discussion, we also work towards normalizing talking about mental health. - [Peer Support Group: Coping with Anxiety in Social Situations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-coping-with-anxiety-in-social-situations/) - Join us to discuss how anxiety can affect us in social situations and how we can cope with this anxiety. By acknowledging and discussing these feelings, we can create a safe space where we can relate to and learn from others. Even virtually, we can feel connected to and supported by others who experience similar - [Workshop: Political Abuse of Psychiatry](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-political-abuse-of-psychiatry/) - How can medical power be abused for the purpose of political and social oppression? Here, we will explore how the field of psychiatry has been misused in order to obstruct human rights and maintain control over the public, particularly against individuals or groups that challenge the status quo. Psychiatry is the medical specialty that - [Workshop: Let's Talk About Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-lets-talk-about-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-mental-health/) - Mental health affects everyone but can present itself in diverse ways. In the workplace, commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) often fail to adequately ensure support for mental health challenges. Much of the time, mental health is overlooked and stigmatized, preventing many employees from seeking help or treatment. Moreover, mental health is experienced in - [Peer Support Group: Substance Addiction & Young Adults (18-24) - [April 28]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-substance-addiction-young-adults-18-24-april-28/) - Join us in a judgment-free safe space as we talk about mental health and substance addiction. Supporting each other as peers can help with overall socialization and help us feel less alone. Let's come together (digitally) and share our experiences with others who face similar challenges. About Our Peer Support Groups: This is a part - [Peer Support Group: Substance Addiction & Young Adults (18-24) - [April 21]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-substance-addiction-young-adults-18-24-april-21/) - Join us in a judgment-free safe space as we talk about mental health and substance addiction. Supporting each other as peers can help with overall socialization and help us feel less alone. Let's come together (digitally) and share our experiences with others who face similar challenges. About Our Peer Support Groups: This is a part - [Peer Support Group: Substance Addiction & Young Adults (18-24)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-group-substance-addiction-young-adults-18-24/) - Join us in a judgment-free safe space as we talk about mental health and substance addiction. Supporting each other as peers can help with overall socialization and help us feel less alone. Let's come together (digitally) and share our experiences with others who face similar challenges. About Our Peer Support Groups: This is a part - [Bi+ Talk Peer Support Group: Why Talking About Mental Health Matters (Online)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/bi-talk-peer-support-group-why-talking-about-mental-health-matters-online/) - Bisexual Queer Alliance Chicago (BQAC) and Step Up For Mental Health® are teaming up to bring you an important discussion on mental health in the bisexual+ community and why talking about mental health matters. Featuring an educational discussion led by Adrienne McCue (Step Up For Mental Health, Bi+ Project) and Auggie Rodriguez (BQAC)--where we will - [Workshop: Mental Health Disparities in Minority Populations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-mental-health-disparities-in-minority-populations/) - Issues of mental health do not affect communities equally. Racial, gender and sexual minorities often experience poor mental health outcomes. These groups are less likely to receive mental health services, and those who do are more likely to receive poorer quality care. In order to address mental health disparities, it is important to consider how - [Lunch & Learn - Educational Webinar: Google Career Certificates Scholarships (Dec 12)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/lunch-learn-educational-webinar-google-career-certificates-scholarships-dec-12/) - Be Ready in 6-Months Join Step Up For Mental Health® for a Lunch and Learn Webinar. Jump-start your new career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship and upgrade your skills for a better career and land jobs that need to be filled now and tomorrow! Our Step Up Assistance Program (Step Up Training Circle) and - [Partner Digital Series Workshop: Recruiter Insights and Tips to Land the Job](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/partner-digital-series-workshop-recruiter-insights-and-tips-to-land-the-job/) - Join Step Up For Mental Health as we host a job educational event with Grow With Google. Hear from recruiters from Deloitte, Charter, Google, and SAP on how to position yourself well with a strong resume and interview. In this workshop, you will learn strategies for how to stand out as a job applicant – whether you’re - [Mental Talk: Let's Talk About Mental Health - College Edition! [YouTube Live]](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-lets-talk-about-mental-health-college-edition-youtube-live/) - Join Step Up For Mental Health® on YouTube Live for an hour of Mental Talk! Ethan will be doing a one-hour live stream talking about stress, anxiety, and depression regarding students in college. Within the hour, Ethan will be going into detail about how to see the signs of mental health as well as tips - [Community Workshop: Create a Career Plan to Get the Job You Want](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-create-a-career-plan-to-get-the-job-you-want/) - Learn Something New Join Step Up For Mental Health as we support you in building a career plan that can help you meet your professional goals — whether you’re searching for a new job, seeking a promotion, or considering a career change. In this Partner Digital Series workshop, you’ll identify your strengths and passions, take - [Peer Support Marathon: 45-Minute Peer Chats](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/peer-support-marathon-45-minute-peer-chats/) - Sign up for a day of service. We are holding 10-hours of one-on-one Peer Chat sessions if you need someone to talk to. Our Peer Support Facilitators will be there for you when you need them most. Sign up and join us for 45-minutes in a safe and private space to talk about a problem - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Chronic Illness and Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-chronic-illness-and-mental-health/) - Chronic illness can be extremely isolating. Not only can managing the symptoms be difficult but friends and family often don't understand. All of this can lead to struggles with mental health that only add to the problem. Come join us to discuss your experiences with like-minded people. Gain support for your struggles and share your - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Chronic Pain's Toll on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-chronic-pains-toll-on-mental-health/) - Join us on a Mental Talk that will focus on the impact that chronic pain has on our mental health. Many of us deal with different types of chronic pain in our everyday lives, and sometimes it is hard for this to not interfere with the way we feel or think about ourselves. Join us - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Living with Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-living-with-anxiety/) - Join us on a Mental Talk that will focus on what it is like to live with anxiety. Anxiety can be good for us but when it reaches some extremes, it can have negative effects on our mental health. It can impact the way we live, the way we interact, even the way we sleep. - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Anxiety is More Than Just Stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-anxiety-is-more-than-just-stress/) - Join us on a Mental Talk that will focus on living and having anxiety is more than just experiencing high levels of stress. To this day, there is a lot of misinformation about what anxiety is and how it affects those individuals who experience high levels of anxiety. Anxiety is not simply stress. Join us - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: COVID Vaccine Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-covid-vaccine-anxiety/) - Join us on a Mental Talk that will focus on the anxiety that might come with getting a COVID-19 vaccine. This pandemic has brought a lot of stress and anxiety for a lot of people, sometimes even the unpredictability of a vaccine can feel overwhelming. Join us in a conversation about why these vaccines may - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Living Through A Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-living-through-a-pandemic/) - Join us on a Mental Talk that will focus on what life has been like through this pandemic. We will address how it has impacted our lives and in which ways we have developed coping mechanisms, as well as what things we continue to struggle with. Living during a pandemic can be tough but there - [Community Workshop: Learn the Basics of Google Meet](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-learn-the-basics-of-google-meet/) - Learn Something New Stay connected, even from a distance. Use Google Meet to have online meetings with coworkers, friends, or family. You'll get tips on how to look and sound your best over Google Meet, plus learn how to chat and share your screen. This workshop is designed for learners who are new to digital - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Working from Home and our Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-working-from-home-and-our-mental-health/) - Join us to talk about the impact that working from home has had on our mental health. Have you seen any benefits? Any drawbacks? Join us as we discuss how to best cope with working from home and learn some key ways in which this can be an easier and less mentally draining experience. About - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Life with Bipolar Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-life-with-bipolar-disorder/) - Living with Bipolar Disorder can be alienating and challenging. It can make you feel alone and like you are out of control of your life. Join us to talk with people who have been through similar experiences. Together, we can share our thoughts and feelings - reaching new understandings of what we have been through - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Self Care During A Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-self-care-during-a-pandemic/) - Join us on a Mental Talk that will focus on Self-care during a pandemic. We will discuss in what ways we have had to prioritize self-care and the benefits that have come with this. We will also discuss how self-care can look very different for every person and will share some of the top self-care - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Mental Health and Our Fur Babies](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-mental-health-and-our-fur-babies/) - Join us to talk about the importance of our mental health and the role our fur babies play in it – whether it is your Emotional Support Animal, Therapy dog, Service dog, or simply your pet who helps you alleviate any symptoms that might impact your mental health. Join us to share stories, discuss benefits, - [Webinar: Understanding Emotional Intelligence in Children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/webinar-understanding-emotional-intelligence-in-children/) - This Webinar will talk about different emotions that children experience and what those emotions may feel like. We will discuss what each emotion means and ways to express those emotions through actions, words, and expressions. There will also be activities that will be recommended for when emotions get overwhelming and one needs time to debrief. - [Webinar: Breaking Barriers to Pave Pathways for Asian Mental Well-Being](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/webinar-breaking-barriers-to-pave-pathways-for-asian-mental-well-being/) - As our culture, values, and beliefs shape the unique individuals we are, we may find ourselves encountering these aspects of our identity to function as barriers against our mental well-being. Oftentimes, these barriers may prevent us from addressing, discussing, identifying, and, ultimately, accessing mental health resources. “Breaking Barriers to Pave Pathways for Asian Mental Well-Being” - [Webinar: Identifying and Coping with Self Harm Experiences](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/webinar-identifying-and-coping-with-self-harm-experiences/) - TRIGGER WARNING: Discussion of Self-Harm Self-harm is difficult, both going through it and those seeing it happen in those you care about. With so much stigma surrounding self-harm, it can be difficult to speak openly. Whether you have experience with self-harm or just would like to learn how to help, join us in learning about - [Webinar: Eating Disorders: Facts and Myths](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/webinar-eating-disorders-facts-and-myths/) - What is an eating disorder? What are the signs of an eating disorder? Who can have an eating disorder? Education and awareness are important first steps towards building a future where those suffering feel empowered to recover, free of stigma. Join us as we debunk common myths about eating disorders, learn about some of the - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Online Learning effects on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-online-learning-effects-on-mental-health-2/) - Join us in a conversation about how online learning has had or can have an impact on our mental health. We will discuss how the pandemic has affected our mental health and how recurring interactions through online means have been good for staying connected but how it has also put a strain on our wellbeing. - [Watch Party: Athletes Unlimited Volleyball (Week 5)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/watch-party-athletes-unlimited-volleyball-week-5/) - Step Up For Mental Health Watch Party on Saturdays!! We are having a watch party for the Athletes Unlimited pro volleyball match off this Saturday! Join us as we celebrate our four players on their teams! (Blue and Orange) This last week we'll cheer them on two times on Saturday! Bring your popcorn and your - [Workshop: Mental Health in Art: Painting and a Creative Mindset on Self-Love and Negative Thoughts](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-mental-health-in-art-painting-and-a-creative-mindset-on-self-love-and-negative-thoughts/) - Think about negative thoughts, all the destructive things you tell yourself, create a box or a creative item you can place your thoughts you write down, and then we are going to destroy it, and as we are doing that we will tell ourselves and each other what's great about you! You can use any - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Living with Anxiety during a Pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-living-with-anxiety-during-a-pandemic/) - Join us for a mental talk in which we will openly talk about what it is like to live with anxiety or an anxiety disorder during a global pandemic. We will talk about the impact the pandemic has had on those who already have anxiety, we'll talk about the struggles, the ways in which we - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Stigmas surrounding Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-stigmas-surrounding-mental-health-2/) - In this peer support group, we will discuss what are some of the most common and uncommon stigmas associated with mental health. We will talk about personal experiences and ways in which we believe we can help end the stigma. Everyone's mental health is important, and the more we make sure people take care of - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Bridging Mental Health and Spirituality](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-bridging-mental-health-and-spirituality/) - Bridging Mental Health and Spirituality is a Peer Support Group discussion where people from all identities will have an opportunity to collectively learn, share, and reflect on what mental health and spirituality mean as well as the relationship between the two. This meaningful discussion will allow you to expand on these realms of self-help by - [Watch Party: Athletes Unlimited Game 2 - Blue v Gold](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/watch-party-athletes-unlimited-game-2-blue-v-gold/) - Step Up For Mental Health Watch Party! We are doing a watch party of the Athletes Unlimited 1st and 2nd game that kicked off on Feb 27 today! If you want to join us, we have 100 seats total to cheer on the players who are supporting Step Up For Mental Health! We will stream - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Online Learning and Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-online-learning-and-mental-health/) - In this peer support group, we will discuss the effects that these months of online learning have had on our mental health. Let's talk about how things have changed, what have you liked, what do you wish would be better and what are some challenges that online learning is still bringing to our mental health - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Mental Health Stigmas in Latinx community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-mental-health-stigmas-in-latinx-community/) - Join us to discuss the stigmas surrounding mental health within the Latinx community and the impact that it has on those who struggle with a mental illness. Let's talk about what the stigmas are and what are some ways in which we can break them. About Mental Talk: Good Mental Health is all about talking, sharing, - [The Chicago Volunteer Expo (Online)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/the-chicago-volunteer-expo-online/) - Join Step Up For Mental Health virtually on Sunday, February 21 for the 9th annual Chicago Volunteer Expo. Learn about volunteer opportunities like becoming a Champaign Ambassador, Social Media Specialist, Outreach Specialist, and more! 75+ organizations around Chicago, including us! There are so many ways to give back to your community in 2021! Learn about - [Workshop: Understanding Your Feelings: Improving Emotional Self-Regulation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-understanding-your-feelings-improving-emotional-self-regulation/) - Do you have trouble identifying your emotions? Have you ever felt embarrassed or guilty about expressing yourself in front of others? In this workshop, we'll talk about a variety of ways to identify and express our feelings in a healthy and productive way, and you will learn exactly what it means to process your emotions. - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Living with a high functioning mental illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-living-with-a-high-functioning-mental-illness/) - In this mental talk, we will discuss what it is like to live with a high functioning mental illness in our everyday lives. What it means to have to adjust to difficult situations and how being high functioning can make having a conversation with those who don't a little bit hard. We will also be - [Day of Service: Step Up For Mental Health: Homeless Swag: #GivingForward: Supporting Women in Need](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/day-of-service-step-up-for-mental-health-homeless-swag-givingforward-supporting-women-in-need/) - Step Up For Mental Health supports families and communities in need dealing with mental health-related issues, including poverty. Our #GivingForward campaign is focusing on women's health this year and making sure women have basic items for overall health. We have partnered with the Presidential Inaugural Committee (nonpartisan) to support the Day of Service - MLK - [Day of Service: COVID-19 Relief: Day of Service Food Drive For Families Dealing with Mental Health Related Needs](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/day-of-service-covid-19-relief-day-of-service-food-drive-for-families-dealing-with-mental-health-related-needs/) - Step Up For Mental Health supports families and communities in need dealing with mental health-related issues, including poverty. Our #GivingForward campaign is focusing on feeding families this year. We have partnered with the Presidential Inaugural Committee (nonpartisan) to support the Day of Service - MLK Day where we can give back to our communities during - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Life with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-life-with-an-emotional-support-animal-esa/) - In this Mental Talk, we will be discussing what it is like to be living with an emotional support animal. We will be discussing the requirements to have one and things to consider if you are planning on getting one. We will be discussing the benefits and disadvantages as well as the differences between an - [Mental Talk- Peer Support Group: Post-Holiday Stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-post-holiday-stress/) - In this Mental Talk, we will be talking about post-holiday stress. We know that the holiday season can bring up a lot of mixed feelings and can leave you with stress once it is over. Whether it is because of money anxiety, family anxiety, or any other personal issues. About Mental Talk: Good Mental Health is - [Pre-Volunteer Orientation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/volunteer-orientation/) - If you have already filled out our application form, and have received an invite to sign up for Volunteer Orientation this is the next step to join our volunteer team. To get started, please register to attend one of our Volunteer Orientation webinars by emailing us the day you would like to attend. Please note - [Community Event: Food, Swag Bag and Toys with Park District at Mozart Park in Hermosa](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-event-food-swag-bag-and-toys-with-park-district-at-mozart-park-in-hermosa/) - Join us for our annual #GivingForward community special event, where we support families in need with swag bags. This year we will be giving out a box of food (Veggie/Fruit Combo box), tech, school supplies, and /books/toys. Our sponsors are AmazonSmile, Ketamine Wellness Center, the University of Chicago, and our partner the Chicago Park District. - [Planning Workshop: New Year's Resolutions That Stick](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/planning-workshop-new-years-resolutions-that-stick/) - Year after year, we make New Year's resolutions that are quickly forgotten. We set unrealistic goals that are hard to achieve and leave us feeling defeated. In this workshop, we will discuss the importance of setting intentions rather than resolutions. We'll share strategies for creating tiny habits that stick year-round! What you'll need: Pen and - [Online Class: Family Strategies to Support E-Learning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/online-class-family-strategies-to-support-e-learning/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, many students and families are participating in e-learning to continue learning safely. This can cause additional stress for parents and children during an unprecedented time. This class will share teacher-approved strategies for supporting e-learning and family mental health applicable to learners in preschool through high school. About Our Step Up Peer - [Bi+ Talk: Peer Support Group (Online)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/bi-talk-peer-support-group-online/) - Good Mental Health is all about talking, sharing and listening to one another. What better way to share life experiences in a supportive peer and topic lead group. Topics will range from work, family, caregivers and life balance, meditation, self-care, stress and depression, and more. Mental Talk is for someone who believes peer mental health - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Holiday Season Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-holiday-season-anxiety/) - For some, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. For others, it’s the hardest. Regardless of where you fall on that spectrum, the upcoming holiday season is going to be unlike any other. In this Mental Talk we are going to be talking about some of the struggles we can experience during this time, - [Mental Health Awareness Training (Free)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-awareness-training-free/) - Step Up For Mental Health® has partnered with The Kennedy Forum and the training provided by: Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. What: Mental Health Awareness Date: Tuesday, December 1, 2020 Time: 10 am-12 pm CST Where: Zoom Virtual - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Fibromyalgia and the Effects on Our Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-fibromyalgia-and-the-effects-on-our-mental-health/) - Join us as we talk about living with Fibromyalgia and the effects it has on our mental health. Learn ways to cope, and new technologies that might work for you and your body type. This is a safe space to learn, share with each other the daily struggles of living with chronic pain. About Mental - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Online Learning Effects on Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-online-learning-effects-on-mental-health/) - Because of the COVID19 pandemic we have entered a time of online learning, kids are interacting with their teachers and classmates through computers, parents are holding online meetings from home. A lot of things changed within a matter of weeks and that sometimes tends to impact our mental health. Join us for a peer support - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Living with Parents with Mental Illnesses](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-living-with-parents-with-mental-illnesses/) - Living with a parent who has a mental illness can be difficult. You can often end up as a caretaker, or be subject to abuse. This support group will provide a safe space to talk about your feelings and experiences with peers. We will discuss the impact of living with parents with mental illnesses as - [Workshop: Practicing Gratitude Daily](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-practicing-gratitude-daily/) - In this workshop, we will do some fun gratitude exercises, explore different ways to incorporate gratitude into our everyday tasks, and share the benefits of practicing gratitude daily. Please bring a pen and a notepad. About Our Step Up Peer Training Workshops: Connect with our on-demand, live online peer training, classes, and webinars, Step Up - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Mental Health in Times of COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-mental-health-in-times-of-covid-19/) - The COVID-19 crisis has brought up a lot of tension around the world, it has impacted our work, home, family, and friends. Join us in a discussion on how has the pandemic has affected taking care of our mental health and what are some ways in which we can learn how to cope and take - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: Addiction and Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-addiction-and-mental-health/) - Addiction and Mental Health is a major issue that people face every day, those two categories go hand in hand. Many people with substance use disorders are also diagnosed with mental health illnesses. Whether it be anxiety, depression, bipolar, or any major mental illness, some tend to numb these pains with drugs and alcohol. Join - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Chronic Pain](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-chronic-pain/) - According to the US Center for Health Statistics, 32.8% of the general population suffers from chronic pain. Chronic pain can often feel isolating, but there are others who share your experiences. Good Mental Health is all about talking, sharing, and listening to one another. In this peer support group, we will discuss experiences with chronic - [Community Webinar: Sell Online This Holiday Season with E-Commerce Tools](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-webinar-sell-online-this-holiday-season-with-e-commerce-tools/) - We know 2020 has been hard. Many are changing their goals to create new opportunities as solo entrepreneurs, or small businesses. Learn how to sell online to customers as they kick off their holiday shopping this season. This webinar will walk through the benefits of setting up an online store with Shopify and how to list products on - [Workshop: Journal Jar: Encouraging Daily Mindfulness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-journal-jar-encouraging-daily-mindfulness/) - Did you know that journaling can improve your mood and memory? Harvard researchers suggest that keeping a journal can be good for your mental health, but journaling can be challenging sometimes! What can I write about? When can I find the time? In this workshop, we will create a daily journal jar and fill it - [BQAC 10-Year Anniversary: Documentary and Gala](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/bqac-10-year-anniversary-documentary-and-gala/) - Ten years ago, BQAC was founded as an organization by founding fathers, Brother Mike Oboza, Ed Negron, and Noel Spain. BQAC has come a long way since then. Come celebrate with a documentary viewing and gala! Board member, Auggie Rodriguez, has put together a documentary on the founding of BQAC and how it has progressed - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Stigmas Surrounding Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-stigmas-surrounding-mental-health/) - Every day we find ourselves surrounded by the stigmas that come with having a mental illness or even looking into mental health resources. Join us in a conversation about the power and problem that living with these stigmas has on our everyday lives. We'll be able to talk about how the mental health stigma is - [Mental Talk – Peer Support Group: High Functioning Mental Illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-high-functioning-mental-illness/) - High Functioning Mental Illnesses are recognized as invisible mental illnesses. This, of course, doesn’t make them any less real. A high number of people all across the world, from children to elders, live their every day lives with a high functioning mental illness. Many do not get treated nor are able to recognize the signs - [Pre-Volunteer Orientation (Sat)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/volunteer-orientation-saturday/) - If you have already filled out our application form, and have received an invite to sign up for Volunteer Orientation this is the next step to join our volunteer team. To get started, please register to attend one of our Volunteer Orientation webinars by emailing us the day you would like to attend. Please note - [Workshop: Learn and Practice American Sign Language (ASL)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-learn-and-practice-american-sign-language-asl/) - Taking a break from stress and learn something new! Join us as we learn, brush up, and peer-led a class in sign language! If you want to learn your ABC's or are a seasoned ASL interpreter, help us study a second language as we navigate social distancing! Let’s support one other by stepping into a - [Community Workshop: Black Small Business Meetup Livestream](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-black-small-business-meetup-livestream/) - Minority Mental Health Series: 2020 is a year to think about doing something different and connecting to what matters. We know that healthy mental health also comes with working towards a positive goal! What better way to learn a new skill to advance your career. Always wanted to be a small business, solo-entrepreneurs, consultant, or - [Mental Talk: Peer Support Group: Impact of Stress on Adolescents With the Latinx Community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-impact-of-stress-on-adolescents-with-the-latinx-community/) - Minority Mental Health Series: Stress has a great impact on the mental health and well being of everyone, in this peer support group we will discuss the different ways in which stress, and certain stressors such as economic hardship, language gap, migration, cultural differences, etc., have an impact on the mental health and mood of - [Community Workshop: Use Google Tools to Help You Land Your Next Job](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-use-google-tools-to-help-you-land-your-next-job/) - Minority Mental Health Series: 2020 is a new year to think about doing something different. What better way is to learn a new skill to advance your creative side. Always wanted to be a consultant and create websites for others? What about setting up a family sweets shop? Need to brush up on your resume - [Step Up Mental For Health: Lunch and Learn](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/step-up-mental-for-health-lunch-and-learn/) - Learn about Step Up For Mental Health® and what we do to support families dealing with mental health-related issues. Take a break and learn how you can support life-changing work with like-minded people around our community! Providing Support and Services Mental health touches a variety of groups and backgrounds. Our goal is to make life - [Mental Talk - Peer Support Group: Transgenerational Trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-talk-peer-support-group-transgenerational-trauma/) - Good Mental Health is all about talking, sharing, and listening to one another. What better way to share life experiences in a supportive peer and topic lead group. Topics will range from work, family, caregivers and life balance, meditation, self-care, stress, racism (Transgenerational Trauma) and depression, and more. Mental Talk is for someone who believes - [Community Workshop: Manage Your Business Remotely in Times of Uncertainty](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-manage-your-business-remotely-in-times-of-uncertainty/) - If you are a small startup in the nonprofit space or a consultant who's ready to make it on your own, it's time to learn more digital tools in 2020. What better way to learn a new skill to advance your programs and projects. Whether it's to advance your skills as a consultant with better - [Workshop: Prepare For the GSuite Certification Exam and Q&A - Google Drive](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-prepare-for-the-gsuite-certification-exam/) - Step Up For Mental Health is supporting individuals who want to gain more skills to get a better job to help improve their family lives. Training in digital skills is key in today's market. We are here to help you learn all you can with online digital tools. Our goals are to move the gap - [Digital Webinar: Types of Individual Therapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/digital-webinar-types-of-individual-therapy/) - Do you ever wonder what makes each therapist or psychologist different? Do you want to know about the diverse styles of therapy? This webinar will go through and educate you on the different therapeutic styles that a therapist may use in each individual session, so you can have a choice that works for you or - [Workshop: Meditation Monday](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/workshop-meditation-monday/) - Interactive Experience and Relaxation Are you stressed about life or being at home? Do you need time at the end of the day to calm down and de-stress? Mediation is an excellent way to feel mentally healthier and more prepared. Join Step Up For Mental Health and Sheva who will lead the workshop for a - [Mental Health: Digital Tea Time and Chat](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/mental-health-digital-tea-time-and-chat/) - Take a break from stress and join us for Digital Tea Time and Chat with likeminded people around our community! Let's support one other, share personal stories and social connecting during physical distancing! We use Google Meet and can hold 250 people. Best experience using Google Chrome Browser. Check your computer audio before chat time for the - [Step Up For Kids: Weekly Virtual Reading](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/step-up-for-kids-weekly-virtual-reading/) - Step Up For Mental Health is starting a new channel for our Step Up For Kids Program where we read books that talk about our feelings. Due to the COVID-19 events that are happening in the United States, we have decided to create some new programming virtually. You will see weekly new updated videos on - [Community Workshop: Spring into Action and Learn Google Analytics](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-spring-into-action-and-learn-google-analytics/) - 2020 is a new year to think about doing something different. What better way is to learn a new skill to advance your creative side. Always wanted to be a consultant and create websites for others? What about setting up a family sweets shop? Or wanting to give back to your community and start that - [Chicago Actors' Call To Action (CACTA) Blues Benefit for Step Up For Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/chicago-actors-call-to-action-cacta-blues-benefit-for-step-up-for-mental-health/) - Chicago Actors' Call To Action (CACTA), our Community Partner is giving a benefit for Step Up For Mental Health at Uncommon Ground on February 17, 2020. (Please mark this date on your calendars) and come out for a night of Acoustic Blues by Chicago's best and brightest! Actively Stand Up CACTA believes that we can - [Mental Health First Awareness Training (Free)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/free-mental-health-awareness-training-2/) - Step Up For Mental Health has partnered with The Kennedy Forum at the Dorchester Art Housing Collaborative, Rebuild Foundation in the Chatham, Avalon Park neighborhood. These trainings lessen stigma, increase the ability to identify mental health and substance use challenges, helps someone intervene in emergency and non-emergency mental health challenges, and provides information about how, - [Mental Health First Aid Training (Free)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/free-mental-health-first-aid-training/) - Step Up For Mental Health has partnered with The Kennedy Forum at the Blue Door Neighborhood Center in the Pullman neighborhood. These trainings lessen stigma, increase the ability to identify mental health and substance use challenges, helps someone intervene in emergency and non-emergency mental health challenges, and provides information about how, when, and where to - [Community Workshop: Solo-entrepreneurs and Small NPOs Grow Your Digital Skills](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-solo-entrepreneurs-and-small-npos-grow-your-digital-skills-2/) - We believe in helping individuals who want to grow their skills, careers or support a new startup that can change the world. Learn new digital skills with us and our partner #Growwithgoogle and join our workshops all year long. We work with communities in poverty who want to advance the skills needed in today's workplace. - [Community Workshop: Solo-entrepreneurs and Small NPOs Grow Your Digital Skills](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/events/community-workshop-solo-entrepreneurs-and-small-npos-grow-your-digital-skills/) - We believe in helping individuals who want to grow their skills, careers or support a new startup that can change the world. Learn new digital skills with us and our partner #Growwithgoogle and join our workshops all year long. We work with communities in poverty who want to advance the skills needed in today's workplace. ## TBMS - [Volunteer Staff](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tbms_cpt_name/champion-ambassadors/) - [Helpline: Intern Staff](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tbms_cpt_name/volunteer-staff/) - [Executive Team](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tbms_cpt_name/volunteer-teams/) - [Board of Directors Page](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tbms_cpt_name/board-of-directors-page/) ## Categories - [General](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/general/) - [Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/) - [Partners](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/partners/) - [Depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/depression/) - [Schizophrenia](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/schizophrenia/) - [Family](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/family/) - [Bipolar Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/bipolar-disorder/) - [Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/anxiety/) - [Stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/stress/) - [Nonprofits](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/nonprofits/) - [Services](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/services/) - [Letter From the Executive Director](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/letter-from-the-executive-director/) - [Mental Health Awareness Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health-awareness-month/) - [Mental Health Events](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health-events/) - [Podcast](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/podcast/) - [Personal Stories](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/personal-stories/) - [Self-care](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/self-care/) - [Bipolar I Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/bipolar-i-disorder/) - [Career](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/career/) - [Obsessive Compulsive Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/) - [Postpartum Depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/postpartum-depression/) - [Minority Mental Health Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/minority-mental-health-month/) - [Women's Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/womens-health/) - [News](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/news/) - [Press Releases](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/press-releases/) - [YouTube: Mental Talk Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/podcast/youtube-mental-talk-series/) - [Student/College Life](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/student-college-life/) - [Sex Education](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/sex-education/) - [Sexual Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/sexual-health/) - [Mental Health and Disabilities](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health-and-disabilities/) - [Self-help](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/self-help/) - [Mindfulness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/self-help/mindfulness/) - [Relationships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/relationships/) - [Friendships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/relationships/friendships/) - [Children Depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/depression/children-depression/) - [Step Up For Kids Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/step-up-for-kids-program/) - [Programs](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/programs/) - [Mental Talk Podcast](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-talk-podcast/) - [Racism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/racism/) - [Transgenerational Trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/racism/transgenerational-trauma/) - [Children's Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/childrens-mental-health/) - [COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/covid-19/) - [black mental health matters](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/black-mental-health-matters/) - [Men's Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mens-mental-health/) - [Men's Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mens-health/) - [Caregivers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/caregivers/) - [ptsd](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/ptsd/) - [physical health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/physical-health/) - [National Suicide Prevention Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/national-suicide-prevention-month/) - [Bullying Prevention Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/bullying-prevention-month/) - [Health and Wellness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/health-and-wellness/) - [Outreach Events](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/programs/outreach-events/) - [Black History Month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/black-history-month/) - [Board of Director](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/board-of-director/) - [Youth Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/youth-mental-health/) - [Teen Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/teen-mental-health/) - [Peer Support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/peer-support/) - [Social Justice](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/social-justice/) - [Substance Use Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health/substance-use-disorder/) - [Mental Health Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/category/mental-health-series/) ## Tags - [mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health/) - [Podcast](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/podcast/) - [Fibromyalgia](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fibromyalgia/) - [fibro](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fibro/) - 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[Mario Smith](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mario-smith/) - [Lumpenradio](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/lumpenradio/) - [News From the Service Entrance with Mario Smith](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/news-from-the-service-entrance-with-mario-smith/) - [interview](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/interview/) - [Seasonal Affective Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/seasonal-affective-disorder/) - [Winter](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/winter/) - [Nature](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/nature/) - [Communication with a parent](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/communication-with-a-parent/) - [College Life](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/college-life/) - [Outreach Event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/outreach-event/) - [COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/covid-19/) - [online events](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/online-events/) - [online training](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/online-training/) - 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[Mental Talk Peer Support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-talk-peer-support/) - [Online Group](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/online-group/) - [Step Up For Assistance Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/step-up-for-assistance-program/) - [Types of Therapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/types-of-therapy/) - [mental health session](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-session/) - [risks](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/risks/) - [adulthood](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adulthood/) - [older adults](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/older-adults/) - [mental health symptoms](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-symptoms/) - [mental health risks](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-risks/) - [American Sign Language](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/american-sign-language/) - [ASL](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/asl/) - [G Suite Certification](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/g-suite-certification/) - 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Jones](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/camesha-l-jones/) - [Sista Afya](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/sista-afya/) - [Sista Afya Community Mental Wellness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/sista-afya-community-mental-wellness/) - [Adrienne McCue](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adrienne-mccue/) - [New Podcast](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/new-podcast/) - [schizophrenia](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/schizophrenia/) - [Lunch and Learn](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/lunch-and-learn/) - [Transgenerational Trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/transgenerational-trauma/) - [racism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/racism/) - [loss and grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/loss-and-grief/) - [talking to children about racism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/talking-to-children-about-racism/) - [yoga](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/yoga/) - [constructive rest](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/constructive-rest/) - [childhood abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/childhood-abuse/) - [childhood neglect](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/childhood-neglect/) - [childhood mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/childhood-mental-health/) - [stretch](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stretch/) - [relax](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/relax/) - [meditation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/meditation/) - [black lives matter](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-lives-matter/) - [black voices](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-voices/) - [black community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-community/) - [TRE](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/tre/) - [PTSD](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/ptsd/) - [mental health patient](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-patient/) - [pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/pandemic/) - [Unemployed](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/unemployed/) - 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[Hispanic families](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/hispanic-families/) - [cultural differences](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/cultural-differences/) - [Latino Adolescents](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/latino-adolescents/) - [Latinx Adolescents](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/latinx-adolescents/) - [Hispanic Adolescents](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/hispanic-adolescents/) - [peer group support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-group-support/) - [teletherapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teletherapy/) - [phototherapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/phototherapy/) - [emotional health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emotional-health/) - [triggers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/triggers/) - [panic attacks](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/panic-attacks/) - [trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/trauma/) - [Cognitive Reframing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/cognitive-reframing/) - [anxiety relief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/anxiety-relief/) - [stress relief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stress-relief/) - [mental health tips](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-tips/) - [parenting](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/parenting/) - [autism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/autism/) - [breathe fresh air](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/breathe-fresh-air/) - [take a walk](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/take-a-walk/) - [mental strength](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-strength/) - [finding a therapist](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/finding-a-therapist/) - [therapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/therapy/) - [short-term therapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/short-term-therapy/) - [mental health in children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-in-children/) - [challenges in special education](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/challenges-in-special-education/) - [down syndrome](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/down-syndrome/) - [orthorexia](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/orthorexia/) - [eating disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/eating-disorder/) - [recovery](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/recovery/) - [cooking](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/cooking/) - [Minority Mental Health Series:](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/minority-mental-health-series/) - [black small business](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-small-business/) - [managing anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/managing-anxiety/) - [self-care tips](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-care-tips/) - [fighting in marriage](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fighting-in-marriage/) - [COVID-19 date night](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/covid-19-date-night/) - [date night with kids](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/date-night-with-kids/) - [five love languages](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/five-love-languages/) - 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[Election Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/election-anxiety/) - [COVID-19 pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/covid-19-pandemic/) - [flu season](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/flu-season/) - [avoiding panic attacks](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/avoiding-panic-attacks/) - [election protests](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/election-protests/) - [Breathing and Body work](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/breathing-and-body-work/) - [boydyfulness and the mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/boydyfulness-and-the-mind/) - [Breathwork](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/breathwork/) - [double breath](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/double-breath/) - [adult stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adult-stress/) - [flu shot](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/flu-shot/) - [Emotions](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emotions/) - [walking meditation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/walking-meditation/) - [mind and body](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mind-and-body/) - [mindfulness and stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mindfulness-and-stress/) - [depression after graduating](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/depression-after-graduating/) - [therapy and life changes](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/therapy-and-life-changes/) - [life changes and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/life-changes-and-mental-health/) - [coping with negative emotions](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/coping-with-negative-emotions/) - [anxiety and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/anxiety-and-mental-health/) - [anxiety management](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/anxiety-management/) - [personal struggles with anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/personal-struggles-with-anxiety/) - [challenging negative self-talk](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/challenging-negative-self-talk/) - [caffeine](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/caffeine/) - [mental health exercises](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-exercises/) - [seasonal mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/seasonal-mental-health/) - [winter season](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/winter-season/) - [gratitude](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gratitude/) - [thanksgiving](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/thanksgiving/) - [gratitude workshop](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gratitude-workshop/) - [digital workshop](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/digital-workshop/) - [E-Learning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/e-learning/) - [choice language](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/choice-language/) - [brain breaks](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/brain-breaks/) - [Grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/grief/) - [taboo](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/taboo/) - [violence](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/violence/) - [caretakers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/caretakers/) - [abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/abuse/) - [parents with mental illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/parents-with-mental-illness/) - [a parent with mental illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/a-parent-with-mental-illness/) - [caffeine and anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/caffeine-and-anxiety/) - [work from home](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/work-from-home/) - [amazonsmile](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/amazonsmile/) - [#GivingForward](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/givingforward/) - [Fibromyalgia and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fibromyalgia-and-mental-health/) - [fatigue and depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fatigue-and-depression/) - [emotional support animal](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emotional-support-animal/) - [mental illness recovery](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-illness-recovery/) - [mental health wellness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-wellness/) - [mental health treatment](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-treatment/) - [dealing with grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dealing-with-grief/) - [movement and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/movement-and-mental-health/) - [steps to manage grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/steps-to-manage-grief/) - [grief and the body](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/grief-and-the-body/) - [opening the heart](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/opening-the-heart/) - [Productivity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/productivity/) - [holiday season anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/holiday-season-anxiety/) - [holiday season support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/holiday-season-support/) - [holiday season](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/holiday-season/) - [practicing mindfulness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/practicing-mindfulness/) - [self-care routine](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-care-routine/) - [creating a state of flow](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/creating-a-state-of-flow/) - [productivity culture](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/productivity-culture/) - [incite motivation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/incite-motivation/) - [set goals](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/set-goals/) - [creative pursuits](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/creative-pursuits/) - [Ketamine Wellness Center](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/ketamine-wellness-center/) - [DeliveringSmiles](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/deliveringsmiles/) - [Mozart Park](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mozart-park/) - [COVID](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/covid/) - [online community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/online-community/) - [Resolutions](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/resolutions/) - [Goals](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/goals/) - [Planning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/planning/) - [New Year](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/new-year/) - [International OCD Foundation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/international-ocd-foundation/) - [online community groups](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/online-community-groups/) - [community group](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/community-group/) - [Managing Depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/managing-depression/) - [Discovering My Identity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/discovering-my-identity/) - [Making Progress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/making-progress/) - [coping strategy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/coping-strategy/) - [mental health care](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-care/) - [vagus nerve](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/vagus-nerve/) - [conflict](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/conflict/) - [exercises](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/exercises/) - [post-holiday season](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/post-holiday-season/) - [community event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/community-event/) - [Hermosa Neighborhood](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/hermosa-neighborhood/) - [University of Chicago](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/university-of-chicago/) - [healing from depression](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/healing-from-depression/) - [dealing with stress](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dealing-with-stress/) - [lighthearted perspective](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/lighthearted-perspective/) - [easygoing approach to mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/easygoing-approach-to-mental-health/) - [loneliness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/loneliness/) - [shopping](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/shopping/) - [impulses](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/impulses/) - [social connections](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/social-connections/) - [feeling lonely](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/feeling-lonely/) - [emptiness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emptiness/) - [Emotional support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emotional-support/) - [My Mental Health Journey](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/my-mental-health-journey/) - [Past Trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/past-trauma/) - [Personal Testimony](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/personal-testimony/) - [holiday](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/holiday/) - [season](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/season/) - [light](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/light/) - [christmas](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/christmas/) - [new year's](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/new-years/) - [family relationships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/family-relationships/) - [personal story](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/personal-story/) - [self-care techniques](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-care-techniques/) - [simple mindfulness exercises](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/simple-mindfulness-exercises/) - [daily meditation practice](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/daily-meditation-practice/) - [self-compassion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-compassion/) - [mental health journey](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-journey/) - [self-talk](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-talk/) - [benefits of self-compassion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/benefits-of-self-compassion/) - [self-acceptance](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-acceptance/) - [mental health affirmations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-affirmations/) - [positive statements](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/positive-statements/) - [positive affirmations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/positive-affirmations/) - [mental health stigma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-stigma/) - [stigma mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stigma-mental-health/) - [stigmas surrounding mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stigmas-surrounding-mental-health/) - [daily affirmations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/daily-affirmations/) - [Dealing with loss](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dealing-with-loss/) - [Healing from grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/healing-from-grief/) - [stages of grief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stages-of-grief/) - [grief writing exercises](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/grief-writing-exercises/) - [Generalized Anxiety Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/generalized-anxiety-disorder/) - [paralyzing anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/paralyzing-anxiety/) - [anxiety disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/anxiety-disorder/) - [Presidential Inaugural Committee](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/presidential-inaugural-committee/) - [StepUp4Women](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepup4women/) - [StepUp4Families](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepup4families/) - [MLKDay](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mlkday/) - [DayOfService](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dayofservice/) - [women products](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/women-products/) - [feminine products](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/feminine-products/) - [food drive](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/food-drive/) - [feeding families](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/feeding-families/) - [COVID-19 Relief](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/covid-19-relief/) - [Day of Service Food](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/day-of-service-food/) - [#DayOfServiceFood](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dayofservicefood/) - [healthcare](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/healthcare/) - [negative effects of overthinking](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/negative-effects-of-overthinking/) - [how to combat overthinking](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/how-to-combat-overthinking/) - [how to stop overthinking](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/how-to-stop-overthinking/) - [what is overthinking](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/what-is-overthinking/) - [coping with toxic relationships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/coping-with-toxic-relationships/) - [Safety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/safety/) - [explore](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/explore/) - [feelings](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/feelings/) - [self-regulation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-regulation/) - [mental healthcare](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-healthcare/) - [Google Workplace](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-workplace/) - [Productivity Tools](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/productivity-tools/) - [Job seekers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/job-seekers/) - [mental healthcare and the ACA](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-healthcare-and-the-aca/) - [changes in insurance coverage](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/changes-in-insurance-coverage/) - [mental health insurance](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-insurance/) - [latinx community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/latinx-community/) - [small wins](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/small-wins/) - [personal growth](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/personal-growth/) - [celebrate](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/celebrate/) - [inner work life](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/inner-work-life/) - [mental health system](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-system/) - [validation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/validation/) - [therapist](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/therapist/) - [counselor](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/counselor/) - [The Chicago Volunteer Expo](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/the-chicago-volunteer-expo/) - [The 2021 Chicago Volunteer Expo](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/the-2021-chicago-volunteer-expo/) - [Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peggy-notebaert-nature-museum/) - [volunteer event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/volunteer-event/) - [Teenager](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teenager/) - [Voice](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/voice/) - [black women](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-women/) - [mental wellness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-wellness/) - [dealing with trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dealing-with-trauma/) - [emotional validation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emotional-validation/) - [expressing your needs](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/expressing-your-needs/) - [Fur Babies](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fur-babies/) - [reclaim power from abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/reclaim-power-from-abuse/) - [reclaiming power](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/reclaiming-power/) - [talking to teenagers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/talking-to-teenagers/) - [personal story on abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/personal-story-on-abuse/) - [mental abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-abuse/) - [spirituality](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/spirituality/) - [#Beunlimited](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/beunlimited/) - [StepUpEbony](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepupebony/) - [StepUpKristy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepupkristy/) - [Athletes Causes](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/athletes-causes/) - [Athletes Unlimited](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/athletes-unlimited/) - [Givelively](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/givelively/) - [nature and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/nature-and-mental-health/) - [how to spend more time in nature](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/how-to-spend-more-time-in-nature/) - [benefits of ecotherapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/benefits-of-ecotherapy/) - [ways to connect with nature](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/ways-to-connect-with-nature/) - [nature benefits mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/nature-benefits-mental-health/) - [raising children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/raising-children/) - [child anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/child-anxiety/) - [children mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/children-mental-health/) - [substance use disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/substance-use-disorder/) - [lovingkindness meditation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/lovingkindness-meditation/) - [unconditional love](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/unconditional-love/) - [StepUpKelly](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepupkelly/) - [StepUpKarsta](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepupkarsta/) - [Kelly Hunter](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/kelly-hunter/) - [Ebony Nwanebu](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/ebony-nwanebu/) - [Karsta Lowe](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/karsta-lowe/) - [Kristy Wieser](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/kristy-wieser/) - [significant action](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/significant-action/) - [female empowerment](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/female-empowerment/) - [creative flow](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/creative-flow/) - [physical movement](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/physical-movement/) - [eating disorders](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/eating-disorders/) - [facts](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/facts/) - [myths](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/myths/) - [use your voice](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/use-your-voice/) - [your voice is beautiful](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/your-voice-is-beautiful/) - [use your voice to heal](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/use-your-voice-to-heal/) - [self-harm](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-harm/) - [identifying](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/identifying/) - [webinar event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/webinar-event/) - [Primal Instincts](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/primal-instincts/) - [Family Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/family-mental-health/) - [Depression and Anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/depression-and-anxiety/) - [dancing and gratitude](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dancing-and-gratitude/) - [benefits of dancing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/benefits-of-dancing/) - [replenish the mind and body](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/replenish-the-mind-and-body/) - [dancing for the mind and body](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dancing-for-the-mind-and-body/) - [Asian](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/asian/) - [spring cleaning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/spring-cleaning/) - [springtime changes](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/springtime-changes/) - [stress-free house cleaning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stress-free-house-cleaning/) - [Sexual Assault](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/sexual-assault/) - [Clothesline Project](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/clothesline-project/) - [Sexual Orientation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/sexual-orientation/) - [women in sports](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/women-in-sports/) - [Professional Softball Player](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/professional-softball-player/) - [Lilli Piper](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/lilli-piper/) - [Year in review](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/year-in-review/) - [mental health in 2021](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-in-2021/) - [sexual abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/sexual-abuse/) - [Emotional Intelligence](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/emotional-intelligence/) - [children and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/children-and-mental-health/) - [Being bodyful](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/being-bodyful/) - [Being bodyless](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/being-bodyless/) - [decision-making](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/decision-making/) - [dealing with PTSD](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dealing-with-ptsd/) - [processing trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/processing-trauma/) - [child abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/child-abuse/) - [abuse prevention](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/abuse-prevention/) - [abusing children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/abusing-children/) - [Narcissistic Abuse Awareness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/narcissistic-abuse-awareness/) - [My Story](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/my-story/) - [Service Dog In Training](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/service-dog-in-training/) - [everyday life](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/everyday-life/) - [people with ADHD](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/people-with-adhd/) - [Grow with google](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/grow-with-google/) - [Google Meet](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-meet/) - [Tech training](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/tech-training/) - [Accessibly](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/accessibly/) - [video meeting](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/video-meeting/) - [video conference](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/video-conference/) - [college](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/college/) - [Guided Meditation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/guided-meditation/) - [meditation myths](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/meditation-myths/) - [meditation types](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/meditation-types/) - [productive hobbies](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/productive-hobbies/) - [hobbies for the mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/hobbies-for-the-mind/) - [fun things for the mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fun-things-for-the-mind/) - [inclusion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/inclusion/) - [knowing your capability](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/knowing-your-capability/) - [struggling with self-harm](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/struggling-with-self-harm/) - [defining recovery](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/defining-recovery/) - [Creative Writing](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/creative-writing/) - [write by hand](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/write-by-hand/) - [wacky freewriting](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/wacky-freewriting/) - [Love](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/love/) - [Suicide Prevention](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/suicide-prevention/) - [Yoga Day](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/yoga-day/) - [Being Mindful](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/being-mindful/) - [international day of yoga](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/international-day-of-yoga/) - [Self-Worth](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-worth/) - [Trauma-Sensitive Yoga](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/trauma-sensitive-yoga/) - [body sensations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/body-sensations/) - [fight-or-flight](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/fight-or-flight/) - [Exercises for PTSD](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/exercises-for-ptsd/) - [chronic illness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/chronic-illness/) - [Childhood Suicide](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/childhood-suicide/) - [peer support chat sessions](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-support-chat-sessions/) - [45-minute support chats](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/45-minute-support-chats/) - [Peer Support Chats](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-support-chats/) - [Helpline](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/helpline/) - [Google Slides](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-slides/) - [Google Workspace](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-workspace/) - [New Career](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/new-career/) - [computer training](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/computer-training/) - [Community Workshop](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/community-workshop/) - [Career change](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/career-change/) - [suicide prevention month](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/suicide-prevention-month/) - [prevent suicide](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/prevent-suicide/) - [coping with anxious thoughts](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/coping-with-anxious-thoughts/) - [city reopening after COVID-19](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/city-reopening-after-covid-19/) - [new tech careers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/new-tech-careers/) - [Google Partner](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-partner/) - [Google Career Certificates](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-career-certificates/) - [Managing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/managing-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/) - [Mental health in the workplace](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-in-the-workplace/) - [ADHD at work](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adhd-at-work/) - [Power of community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/power-of-community/) - [lessons learned](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/lessons-learned/) - [R U OK](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/r-u-ok/) - [traveling](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/traveling/) - [benefits of traveling](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/benefits-of-traveling/) - [mental health webinar](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-webinar/) - [bullying awareness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/bullying-awareness/) - [caregiving](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/caregiving/) - [YouTube Live](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/youtube-live/) - [Google Career Certificates Scholarships](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-career-certificates-scholarships/) - [educational webinar](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/educational-webinar/) - [Racial Justice](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/racial-justice/) - [diversity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/diversity/) - [race identity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/race-identity/) - [gender identity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gender-identity/) - [disability status](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/disability-status/) - [mental health disparities](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-disparities/) - [stereotypes](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stereotypes/) - [#DayofService #MLKDay #Empathy #StepUpForKids](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dayofservice-mlkday-empathy-stepupforkids/) - [mental health and children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-and-children/) - [Bisexual Queer Alliance Chicago](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/bisexual-queer-alliance-chicago/) - [bi_+ talk](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/bi_-talk/) - [teens living through the pandemic](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teens-living-through-the-pandemic/) - [teen mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teen-mental-health/) - [black youths](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-youths/) - [Yoga for Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/yoga-for-mental-health/) - [Better Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/better-mental-health/) - [Calmer Mind](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/calmer-mind/) - [equity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/equity/) - [DEI](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dei/) - [Dysthymia](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dysthymia/) - [bulimia](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/bulimia/) - [teenage girls](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teenage-girls/) - [nutrition](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/nutrition/) - [substance addiction](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/substance-addiction/) - [substance use](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/substance-use/) - [young adults](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/young-adults/) - [peer support group young adults ages 18-24](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-support-group-young-adults-ages-18-24/) - [psychiatric abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/psychiatric-abuse/) - [political abuse of psychiatry](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/political-abuse-of-psychiatry/) - [punitive psychiatry](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/punitive-psychiatry/) - [self-esteem](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/self-esteem/) - [marriage](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/marriage/) - [gender dysphoria](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gender-dysphoria/) - [gender dysphoria in adults](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gender-dysphoria-in-adults/) - [social anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/social-anxiety/) - [anxiety social situations](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/anxiety-social-situations/) - [coping with anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/coping-with-anxiety/) - [all ages](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/all-ages/) - [virtual support group](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/virtual-support-group/) - [Peer Support Support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-support-support/) - [transgender community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/transgender-community/) - [press release](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/press-release/) - [board member](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/board-member/) - [Dr. Ivania Delgado](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dr-ivania-delgado/) - [board of directors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/board-of-directors/) - [Youth Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/youth-mental-health/) - [Step Up For Kids](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/step-up-for-kids/) - [Teens and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teens-and-mental-health/) - [kids and mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/kids-and-mental-health/) - [narcissistic abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/narcissistic-abuse/) - [family structure](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/family-structure/) - [narcissism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/narcissism/) - [ADHD symptoms](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adhd-symptoms/) - [diet and ADHD](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/diet-and-adhd/) - [ADHD foods](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adhd-foods/) - [White House Mental Health Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/white-house-mental-health-series/) - [National Institute of Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/national-institute-of-mental-health/) - [National Institute on Drug Abuse](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/national-institute-on-drug-abuse/) - [White House](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/white-house/) - [mental health series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-series/) - [Reproductive Rights](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/reproductive-rights/) - [peer support discussion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-support-discussion/) - [Roe vs Wade discussion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/roe-vs-wade-discussion/) - [space of empathy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/space-of-empathy/) - [mental health and women](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-and-women/) - [reproductive health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/reproductive-health/) - [Educational Training](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/educational-training/) - [Step Up Peer Training Circles](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/step-up-peer-training-circles/) - [Antija M. Allen](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/antija-m-allen/) - [Dr. Antija Allen](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dr-antija-allen/) - [Justin T Allen](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/justin-t-allen/) - [Co-Authors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/co-authors/) - [We're Not Ok](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/were-not-ok/) - [Black Faculty Experiences](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-faculty-experiences/) - [Higher Education](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/higher-education/) - [mental health experiences](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-experiences/) - [coping skills](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/coping-skills/) - [Code Switching](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/code-switching/) - [black authors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/black-authors/) - [adjunct professors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adjunct-professors/) - [Young women](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/young-women/) - [teen girls](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teen-girls/) - [teen girls mental health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/teen-girls-mental-health/) - [Applying to college](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/applying-to-college/) - [High school seniors](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/high-school-seniors/) - [college anxiety](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/college-anxiety/) - [Music therapy](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/music-therapy/) - [and Health Conference](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/and-health-conference/) - [Watch Party](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/watch-party/) - [Hunger](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/hunger/) - [Music as a coping tool](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/music-as-a-coping-tool/) - [Health and wellness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/health-and-wellness/) - [FindHelp.org](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/findhelp-org/) - [panel discussion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/panel-discussion/) - [stepupforfamilies](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/stepupforfamilies/) - [International Women's Day Health & Resource Fair](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/international-womens-day-health-resource-fair/) - [Casa Esperanza Project](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/casa-esperanza-project/) - [Chase Bank](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/chase-bank/) - [peer groups](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-groups/) - [community services](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/community-services/) - [Superwoman Syndrome](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/superwoman-syndrome/) - [mental health Barriers](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-barriers/) - [mental health equity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-equity/) - [Empower Individuals](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/empower-individuals/) - [Hispanic Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/hispanic-mental-health/) - [Poverty](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/poverty/) - [Immigration](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/immigration/) - [inequality](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/inequality/) - [Back to School event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/back-to-school-event/) - [Latine community](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/latine-community/) - [Latine Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/latine-mental-health/) - [Mental Health Certification](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-certification/) - [Bilal World Entertainment LLC (BWE)](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/bilal-world-entertainment-llc-bwe/) - [Perdido film](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/perdido-film/) - [mental health event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-event/) - [red carpet film event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/red-carpet-film-event/) - [DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/dusable-black-history-museum-and-education-center/) - [Gmail](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gmail/) - [Adult learning](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adult-learning/) - [technology](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/technology/) - [Google Bard](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-bard/) - [adult learners](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adult-learners/) - [better communication](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/better-communication/) - [Blended In-person class](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/blended-in-person-class/) - [Adult Mental Health First Aid](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/adult-mental-health-first-aid/) - [Behavioral Health Summit](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/behavioral-health-summit/) - [Behavioral Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/behavioral-health/) - [Cook County Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/cook-county-health/) - [Toni Preckwinkle](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/toni-preckwinkle/) - [Mayor Brandon Johnson](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mayor-brandon-johnson/) - [J. B. Pritzker Governor of Illinois](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/j-b-pritzker-governor-of-illinois/) - [Peer Support Programming](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer-support-programming/) - [intersectional trauma](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/intersectional-trauma/) - [Gaza Strip](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gaza-strip/) - [desensitization](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/desensitization/) - [Gen AI](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/gen-ai/) - [Google AI Essentials](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/google-ai-essentials/) - [Mental Health Book Club](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-book-club/) - [Book Club](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/book-club/) - [community events](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/community-events/) - [small business](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/small-business/) - [consultants](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/consultants/) - [Artificial Intelligence](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/artificial-intelligence/) - [AI](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/ai/) - [peer](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/peer/) - [high school student](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/high-school-student/) - [social expectations in high school](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/social-expectations-in-high-school/) - [social exclusion in youth](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/social-exclusion-in-youth/) - [Youth Identity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/youth-identity/) - [High School Mental Health](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/high-school-mental-health/) - [Authenticity Over Conformity](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/authenticity-over-conformity/) - [Social Exclusion](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/social-exclusion/) - [alcoholism](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/alcoholism/) - [alcohol use disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/alcohol-use-disorder/) - [alcohol addiction](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/alcohol-addiction/) - [tobacco use disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/tobacco-use-disorder/) - [nicotine addiction](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/nicotine-addiction/) - [tobacco addiction](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/tobacco-addiction/) - [cannabis use disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/cannabis-use-disorder/) - [weed induced psychosis](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/weed-induced-psychosis/) - [mental health disorder](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/mental-health-disorder/) - [Substance Use Disorder Series](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/tag/substance-use-disorder-series/) ## Picture tag - [Mentoring and tutoring](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/mentoring-and-tutoring/) - [career day](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/career-day/) - [Tutoring](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/tutoring/) - [Mentoring children](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/mentoring-children/) - [swag bags](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/swag-bags/) - [bisexual topics](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/bisexual-topics/) - [Center on Halsted](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/center-on-halsted/) - [Step Up For Kids Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/ngg_tag/step-up-for-kids-program/) ## Categories - [#GrowWithGoogle](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/growwithgoogle/) - [Workshops](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/workshops/) - [Volunteer](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/volunteer/) - [Volunteer Orientation](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/volunteer-orientation/) - [Community Partner](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/community-partner/) - [The Kennedy Forum](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/the-kennedy-forum/) - [Fundraiser](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/fundraiser/) - [Fundraiser Event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/fundraiser-event/) - [Educational Outreach](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/educational-outreach/) - [Step Up For Kids Program](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/step-up-for-kids-program/) - [Digital Online Groups](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/digital-online-groups/) - [Peer Support](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/peer-support/) - [Webinar](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/webinar/) - [Bi+ BSN Project](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/bi-bsn-project/) - [Step Up Peer Training](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/step-up-peer-training/) - [Local Outreach Event](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/local-outreach-event/) - [Peer Chat](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/peer-chat/) - [YouTube Live](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/youtube-live/) - [Mental Talk](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/mental-talk/) - [White House](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/white-house/) - [Health and Wellness](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/health-and-wellness/) - [FindHelp.com](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/findhelp-com/) - [Casa Esperanza Project](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/casa-esperanza-project/) - [Mental Health First Aid](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/mental-health-first-aid/) - [Shine Bright Community Center](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/shine-bright-community-center/) - [Book Club](https://www.stepupformentalhealth.org/mec-category/book-club/)