DYK this week is National Suicide Prevention Week? We covered some mental health resources back in April, but mental health is something that affects many people year-round, so it’s always a good time to talk about it and bring awareness. In a year like 2020 especially, it’s important to highlight suicide prevention, as this is a year that has been especially hard for a lot of people.

Thankfully we live in an area where there are local resources to help those who are struggling.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Greenville has a variety of resources on their website including online support groups, crisis resources, and more – you can check out their community resource list here. Another great local organization making a difference is Upstate Warrior Solution, a non-profit that supports “warriors” and veterans in the Upstate. Many veterans struggle with mental health issues and suicide – you can check out Upstate Warrior Solution’s mental health resources page here

These are certainly not the only local resources available, here are some other great ones:

○ Mental Health America of Greenville County

○ South Carolina Department of Mental Health

○ The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

○ United Way’s SC 211 program offers coronavirus-specific mental health resources like a Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990)

○ If you haven’t already, check out our resource guide

○ And, here is a directory of additional SC mental health centers and clinics.

Talking about suicide prevention this morning in an email is definitely not the last time we should have this conversation. Remember to check on your friends and loved ones, who may especially be struggling during this challenging time.