Mental Health Resources

  • Depression is more than just feeling sad or having a bad day—it’s a persistent mental health condition that affects how you think, feel, and function. Depression is a common but serious mental health condition where symptoms last longer than two weeks.

    Signs and symptoms of depression can vary but often include:

    • Persistent sadness, anxiety, or "empty" mood

    • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

    • Changes in appetite or weight

    • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

    • Fatigue or low energy

    • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering

    • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

    • Thoughts of death or suicide

    Depression is an experience that can affect anyone. There are several causes that contribute to depression and can vary by individual. Depression can often stem from life circumstances, genetics, trauma, other health conditions, substance misuse or abuse, and more.

    Although depression is challenging, it is also treatable. Depression can be treated through psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support groups. Depression is not a sign of weakness, and reaching out for help is a courageous step toward healing. Support is available, and recovery is possible.

    Source: National Institute of Mental Health

  • Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, but when feelings of worry, fear, or unease become persistent and overwhelming, it can interfere with daily life. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions and can manifest in various forms.

    While symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety, common signs include:

    • Persistent worry or fear that is difficult to control

    • Restlessness or feeling "on edge"

    • Difficulty concentrating

    • Irritability

    • Muscle tension

    • Fatigue

    • Sleep disturbances (trouble falling or staying asleep)

    • Physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, or upset stomach

    Anxiety can interfere with daily life and be difficult to manage, but it is treatable. Anxiety can be treated through psychotherapy, medication, and complementary health approaches.

    Source: National Institute of Mental Health

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it’s natural to feel shaken after a traumatic experience, individuals with PTSD find these feelings persist or worsen over time, impacting their daily functioning and quality of life.

    PTSD symptoms generally fall into four categories:

    • Intrusive Memories: Flashbacks, nightmares, or distressing thoughts about the trauma.

    • Avoidance: Steering clear of reminders of the event, including places, people, or activities.

    • Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others; loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

    • Arousal and Reactivity: Hypervigilance, irritability, trouble concentrating, sleep disturbances, or being easily startled.

    These symptoms can be triggered by reminders of the event or may arise unexpectedly.

    Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition that arises from prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, often in situations where escape feels impossible. Unlike PTSD, which may stem from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD typically develops due to ongoing trauma, such as childhood abuse, other forms of abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking, or living in a war zone.

    C-PTSD shares many symptoms with PTSD but also includes additional challenges related to emotional regulation, self-identity, and interpersonal relationships.

    Currently, C-PTSD is not recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). However, C-PTSD is recognized by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

    Experiencing trauma can feel overwhelming, but healing is possible. Reaching out for support is a vital step toward reclaiming your sense of safety and well-being.

    Sources: National Institute of Mental Health (1); National Institute of Mental Health (2)

More information and resources coming soon!