Together in Trials & Transitions: Mental Health Resources
“The trees are about to show us how beautiful it is to let go.”
- unknown
Change and letting go can be beautiful, as the beginning of Autumn reminds us. I think we need the vivid reminder Autumn provides for us because more often than not, transitions and change are difficult and painful. I have recently been reminded just how challenging transitions can be as my home office, from where I do a majority of telehealth sessions, moved, and it is taking me longer than expected to feel settled. My attention and energy are divided (in fact, there are workers here while I sit down to write this!). Those of you who have gone through a major move probably understand how overwhelming, tedious, and exhausting it is. I am fortunate, however, because it is a positive and welcomed change.
As I talk with others, most people seem to find themselves in the midst of various transitions… and, let’s be honest, we have been all year. Whether you face changes to your work, living arrangements, finances/budget, school or basic daily routines… it all feels overwhelming and exhausting and most of it has not been by choice!
Admittedly, as a therapist I sometimes feel pressure to have it figured out or to have an inspirational message or great list of skills. And while I would like to give some prescription with recommended things you can do to make it better or survive each transition, I recognize sometimes that is not enough and is not helpful. Sometimes all we can do is breathe and keep going—one step at a time—and lean on those around us for support. Sometimes what we really need is someone to listen, without giving advice, solutions, or inspiration. We need someone to sit with us in the silence, pain, and overwhelm, someone who can say “I don’t know… but I’m with you.”
If whatever life has thrown at you feels like too much, I beg you, please ask for help. Please reach out to a family member, a friend, neighbor… or a therapist or crisis center, which are available via online chat and phone (1-800-273-8255) 24/7. You do not have to know what to say, just reach out. Because:
You matter. You are cared about.
No one can do it alone and there is help.
It can and will get better.
There is hope.
Here are a few resources that can connect you with someone who can help:
National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Eating Disorder Association
Texas Health and Human Services - Behavioral Health Resources for Texans
Psychology Today: Find a Therapist
Of course, if you are local to Dallas, Texas and are seeking therapy or counseling services, please contact us through our connect page.