No one is alone: Talking mental health as the holidays approach

Photo: Office of Rep. Kinkead

The last two years have been difficult, and at times traumatic, for many of us, our families, and our neighbors. It has been a stressful period in all of our lives, and now, with the holidays and winter approaching, I want to remind everyone that no one is alone, and that help is available no matter the situation—even if it’s just a shoulder to lean on or someone to listen to you as you share your story.

I think everyone who has experienced stress or trauma in one way or another understands how isolating it can be. It begins to feel as if not only are you alone, but that you shouldn’t burden others with your challenges.

The truth is, in any given year, one in five adults experience a mental illness. Forty-five million Americans suffer from things like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. The good news is that the overwhelming majority of those who seek help go on to live happy, productive lives. I know because I am one of them.

Recovery is possible. Help is available. Yet, we often think about mental health differently than other forms of health. It isn’t. 

Just like going to the doctor for an annual physical or talking about an aching joint or lingering injury with a friend who can commiserate, it’s important to talk about mental health with others.

There are resources available right here in Allegheny County:

• Call 1-888-7YOUCAN (1-888-796-8226) to talk with someone on the phone, and if needed, a mobile team can be sent to your location.
• Text “PA” to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor.
• Visit the Walk-in Center located at 333 North Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15208.
• If you want support, information, or treatment for an alcohol or drug use-related challenge, call Pathway to Care and Recovery at 412-325-7550.
• And if you need to talk to someone who has “been there,” call the Allegheny County Peer Support Warmline at 1-866-661-9276 between 9 a.m. and 1 a.m.

For many people who suffer from a mental illness, recovery can be challenging. But what helps more than anything—what gives so many of our friends and neighbors strength—is the knowledge that they are not alone.  

You are not alone.  

We are all surrounded by people who care about us and who will support us on the journey to get well. Please, this winter, be aware of who the people around you are and what they have been going through. Lend a hand. Lend an ear. And if you need help—even someone to talk to—please, please, use the resources I outlined above.

And feel free to reach out to me if you have questions or need assistance, whether it be related to this or any state program or service, by calling my office at 412-321-5523 or emailing me at RepKinkead@pahouse.net. 

My team and I are here to help you!