On our Home page, visitors can expect to find mental health statistics, personal stories, and details about upcoming events. Stay informed and motivated on your mental health journey with Walking with a Purpose.

Things you should know:

Statistics say:

In the United States, a significant portion of adults with a mental illness do not receive treatment. Estimates suggest that over half (56%) of adults with a mental illness are not receiving any mental healthcare services. This translates to over 27 million individuals struggling with a mental illness but going untreated. There are several factors that contribute to this gap in access to care, including cost, stigma, and a shortage of mental health professionals.

An estimated 700,000 people a year take their own life 

If you are struggling, please reach out. The national Suicide Hotline has updated their phone number, just simply dial 988 to talk to someone.   Calling 211, The United Way, is also a good way to find resources near you.

We encourage you to seek help and never give up.  Life is precious and you are not alone.

When I was struggling, going for a walk always seemed to make me feel better.  

Spending time in nature and walking have numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing symptoms of depression. Here's a summary of why:

 * Increased physical activity: Walking is a form of exercise that releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.

 * Exposure to sunlight: Sunlight helps regulate serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood and well-being.

 * Reduced stress: Nature has a calming effect that can help reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation.

 * Mindfulness: Being outdoors can promote mindfulness by encouraging you to focus on the present moment and appreciate your surroundings.

If you're struggling with depression, consider incorporating walks in nature into your routine. Even a short walk in a park can make a difference.

Helpful Information:

How should I talk with someone who might be in crisis?

DO:

• Talk in private.
• Treat the person with respect & dignity.
• Tell the person that you care and want to help.
• Listen non-judgmentally.
• Express empathy.
• Take their concerns seriously. 
• Let them know their life matters to you.
• Ask questions that show you genuinely care.
• Check your understanding by restating what they have said and summarizing facts and feelings.
• Listen to not only what they say, but how they say it; tone of voice and nonverbal clues will give you more info about feelings.
• Use minimal prompts when necessary to keep the conversation going. (ex: “I see” or “ah”)
• Be patient, even when the person is not speaking clearly or is being repetitive.

DON’T:

• Try to fix their problems.
• Minimize what they are feeling.
• Tell someone to “get over it” or “snap out of it.”
• Interrupt the person, especially to share your opinions or experiences.
• Be critical.
• Express your frustration at the person for having such symptoms.
• Tell the person you know what they are going through.
• Blame the person for the illness.

If you suspect someone is suicidal:

• Take the person seriously.
• Do not leave the person alone.  If you can’t stay, arrange for someone else to be there.
• Ask directly about suicidal thoughts. (Are you having thoughts of suicide?  Are you thinking about killing yourself?)
• If the answer to either of these questions is yes, you need to determine whether the person has definite intentions to take their own life or if their thoughts are more vague.  (Have you decided how you would kill yourself?  Have you decided when you would do it?  Have you taken any steps to secure the things you would need to carry out your plan?)
• Encourage appropriate professional help.
• Offer information & resources.
• If you are concerned about their immediate safety, call 9-1-1.

Our resources are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are in a crisis, please visit your local emergency department or call 911 immediately.

*information from Illinois Farm Bureau website