Frequently Asked Questions

Resilience is the thought process that prompts you to say the “yes buts” and “oks.”

• Yes, but let’s look at the bright side.
• Yes, but it could have been worse.
• Yes, but I am sure it will get better.
• Yes, but I have hope.
• Ok, that didn’t work, let’s try something different.
• Ok, not doing that again now or in the future.
• Ok, will try again tomorrow.
• Ok, will give into my emotion now (tears, anger, words) but I will need to calm down.
• Ok, done my best, will now have to wait and see what happens.

If your self-talk includes these thoughts, then, guess what? You are resilient! You have already used a tool to get past the moment and now we need to put your resilience into action.

Here are some tips:

1. Understand what therapies are available and what may be best for you.
2. If you feel comfortable enough, ask a friend or family member for recommendations.
3. Look up your local hospital’s website and search for doctors who specialize in Psychology and/or Psychiatry – note many hospitals now offer virtual consultations.
4. If you work for an organization that offers employee assistance programs – consider getting an appointment. These services are free and often available to retirees and/or dependents.
5. Contact your local social service provider for referrals or guidance.
6. If seeking treatment or help for mental and/or substance use disorders utilize authentic sources such as Findtreatment.gov or Findsupport.gov
7. Access Psychology Today’s “Find a Therapist” option and search by city, zip code, name or even practice type.
8. Add the following numbers into your cell phone contacts list:
   1. National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
   2. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 800-273-TALK (8255)
   3. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – 988
   4. Veterans Crisis Line – 988 – then press 1.
   5. Text message: 435748 (HELP4U) OR 741741

We can help improve protective factors for by:

1. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of suicidal thinking.
2. Telling them how proud you are of their efforts to succeed in school or in employment.
3. Listening without judgement, pushing or being confrontational.
4. Not taking their suicidal thoughts as a personal affront on your caregiving.
5. Connecting them to a spiritual advisor for support.
6. Helping them revisit past happy memories through photographs and home movies.
7. Encouraging them to journal or draw as a means of expressing feelings.
8. Procuring professional help such as a counselor or the suicide hotline – National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255 or 988.
9. Considering taking a course on Mental Health First Aid .
10. Surrounding them with positive images, words, and people.

We will help you find the most appropriate offering for you, your family and your community – contact us.