In 2022 Georgia ranked 48th in the nation for accessibility to obtain mental healthcare. While this is not great, it is actually better than our ranking just a few years ago when we were dead last. NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Their annual fundraiser NAMI Walk - Georgia will take place on Saturday, October 5th. The funds raised by this event allow the organization to lobby on behalf of better mental health services and expand its reach into local communities. And while the stigma around receiving mental healthcare is still strong, people in diverse communities feel comfortable with the words “my therapist said…” Even men at this point speak about receiving therapy that makes life better for them and those around them. Life will be life and it is mentally refreshing to speak with someone who provides not only fresh perspectives but also tools that can be used to overcome those emotional challenges that all humans face.
Katie Cook from NAMI Georgia joins us to speak about the state of mental health in our community and where we can improve and grow.
I asked Cook about the current environment where everyone seems on edge most of the time. She spoke of self-awareness which is taught in therapy. She explains that it is a way of stepping back and observing yourself, thoughts, and actions. By doing this you can begin to recognize the problematic actions or thoughts and change them. Cook goes on to share that by using self-soothing skills you can change unhealthy behaviors. Cook advises that we practice mindfulness, celebrate moments of joy, and develop a plan to regulate emotions in the moment.
When you can’t shake feelings of anxiety or depression you can call the 988 crisis line. NAMI Georgia also offers a “warm” helpline that can be accessed via email at helpline@NAMIGA.org or by calling 770-408-0625. If you’re interested in participating in the NAMI Walks Georgia begins at 9AM - 12PM at Assembly Park in Doraville.