5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Mental Health (Plus Arizona Resources You Should Know)

When I was a young kid, I lived in a place where the weather could be crazy. Cold, gray days were normal, even in the summer. I used to think that if I could just live somewhere sunny and warm, my life would be perfect.

If 11-year-old me could see my life in Arizona, she’d be pretty envious. After all, the warm, sunny weather really does influence my mood, and overall, I’m happier. Even in a beautiful, grounding space, though, life and everyday stressors can creep in, and at times, life can feel overwhelming.

I’ve had moments, like many of us do, when anxiety shows up. That’s why Mental Health Awareness Month is important. It gives us the opportunity to talk about these things and reminds us that taking care of our minds isn’t just a once-in-a-while thing; it’s part of living well every day.

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Arizona Organizations Making a Difference for Mental Health

Across Arizona, many organizations are working to make mental health support easier to find, more caring, and more visible.

Groups such as Mental Health America of Arizona focus on education, screenings, and advocacy. They help people in Arizona understand their mental health and find support when needed.

NAMI Arizona also offers free support groups and community programs. You don’t have to face challenges by yourself.

If you or someone you know needs help right away, organizations like Solari Crisis Response Network offer 24/7 access to trained specialists. They can give real-time support and connect people to local resources.

Community groups like We Care Northern Arizona also offer support. They work to raise awareness about suicide prevention and create safe spaces for tough conversations.

In Southern Arizona, providers such as SEABHS offer behavioral health services to everyone, regardless of income.

Mental health matters, and these organizations are changing the way we talk about it and care for each other.

READ MORE: Enjoying Nature: The Mental Health Benefits Of Arizona's Outdoors

5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Mental Health

Here are some simple ways you can protect and care for your mental health:

• Stay connected with friends, family, or your community. Sometimes the best medicine is spending time with the people in our lives who care for us.
• Get outside. We’re very lucky to have such great weather here. The Arizona sunshine can boost your mood.
• Set boundaries with work, news, and social media. A steady diet of bad news affects our mental health more than we realize sometimes. Unplug when you can.
• Prioritize sleep and consistent routines. Turn off that television and put away your cell phone, and try to go to sleep at the same time.
• Ask for help early. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed. Reach out to someone who can help or call the 988 Lifeline.

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Know the 988 Lifeline (Save It Now)

If you’re feeling stressed, sad, angry, depressed, or just not yourself, searching for a phone number for help can be stressful too. Now, you only need to remember three numbers: 988.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is one of Arizona’s most important resources. Just call or text 988 to reach trained counselors any time, day or night. They will listen and support you, no matter how you feel. They can help with anxiety, grief, substance use, or thoughts of suicide.

This service is free, confidential, and meant to make getting help easy when you need it most.

RELATED: Cochise County's Growing Mental Health Crisis

Mental Health Awareness Month: Support is Available

Mental Health Awareness Month is about people. It’s a time to check in with ourselves, be there for others, and remember that support is always available, even during hard times.