A national movement to
raise awareness about the national crisis

By Grit2 and Navigate Adolescence

Until someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s easy to think mental health struggles affect others. But with two of every five people reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression, it’s likely not a question of if this will affect someone close to you but when.

The good news is there are resources and support throughout our community. This May, for Mental Health Awareness Month, two local non-profits – grit2 (Growing Resiliency in Teens Together) and Navigate Adolescence – along with District 58, District 99, the Village of Downers Grove, and various local businesses will be shining a light on mental health and care in our community through information, events, and activities.

So whether a discussion around the dinner table or free yoga in the park, take this month to do something about mental health – for yourself and your family.

May Mental Health Awareness Community Events*

Green Ribbon Project: Look for green ribbons around town as a reminder of Mental Health Awareness Month.

District 58 and District 99 In-School Programs: Various in-school mental wellness activities will be organized, including District 58’s visual “take heart” art installations, mental health 101 speakers, Downer Grove South “Start Chalking” event and Student Yoga with Power Yoga on Main during final exams for high school students.

No Socials Sunday: Join grit2 and Navigate Adolescence family challenge to stay off social media on Sundays in May. Better yet, put your phone away the whole day!

Free Yoga in the Park & Mental Health Fair: Come out and join fellow community members on Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Fischel Park.

Like physical health, there are ways to get in “good mental shape.”

Talk. Find a trusted friend or adult and talk to them if you struggle.

Listen. If you are that trusted friend or adult, listen and believe.
Practice Coping Strategies. What can you do when you’re stressed out? Breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, painting. Make a list.

Limit Social Media. Studies have found a strong link between heavy social media and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts.

Protect Sleep. Consider turning off all devices at least one hour before sleep. Have your kids turn over their phones before bed and charge them in your room or common space.

Identify Resources. Know the resources available in your area – including a therapist – don’t wait for a crisis.

Persistent and unusual changes can be warning signs someone may be struggling. Be on the lookout for the following.

Emotional Changes: persistent sadness, drastic changes in mood, behavior, or personality

Social Changes: academic performance, avoiding or missing school, withdrawing from friends and family, quitting activities
Physical Changes: loss or gain of weight, changes in eating habits, difficulty sleeping, struggle concentrating, frequent headaches or stomachaches

Verbalizations: talk of hurting self or others
Other: Increased sexual activity or use of drugs, alcohol, or other substances

What should I do if I
feel someone is in a crisis?

• If you feel you, they or others are in immediate danger, call 911.

• Listen, try to remain calm and non-judgemental.

• Ask if they are thinking about suicide; it is important to ask directly.

• If actively suicidal, get immediate help. Call or text 988 or take them to a hospital for evaluation.

• If you are a child or teenager, tell a trusted adult – even if your friend tells you not to.

If they are depressed
but not actively suicidal:

• Listen.

• Offer to help them contact a trusted person, counselor, or helpline.

• Check-in regularly with the individual.

*Full details at umatterhere.org. Brought in part by generous grants provided by the DuPage Foundation, D99 Education Foundation, and Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club.

Mental Health Resources

What mental health resources are available if I need help immediately?

• 911 – Medical Emergency

• 988 – Mental Health Suicide Crisis Hotline

• Eating Disorders – nationaleatingdisorders.org / (800) 931-2237

• LGBTQ Trevor Project – thetrevorproject.org / (866) 488-7386

• Dupage County Health Department Crisis Line – dupagehealth.org / (630) 627-1700

• Linden Oaks Behavioral Health (852 S. West Street in Naperville) 24/7 emergency walk-in behavioral health assessments – lindenoaks.org / (630) 305-5027

What other general resources are available?

• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) DuPage – namidupage.org / (630) 752-0066

• DuPage County Health Department Behavioral Health – dupagehealth.org / (630) 682-7400

• Downers Grove Public Library Social Services – dglibrary.org / (630) 960-1200 ext. 4310

• Linden Oaks Behavioral Health – lindenoaks.org / (630) 305-5027

• grit2 Teen & Parent Resources – grit2.org

• Navigate Adolescence – navigateadolesence.org

Are there resources for depression?

• Illinois “Warmline” for those who need support but are not in immediate crisis – (866) 359-7953

• Teens Supporting Teens: Teen Talk App – teentalkapp.org

• NAMI Illinois Call4Calm Emotional Support Text Line – Text “TALK” or “HABLAR” (for Spanish) to 552020

Are there resources for housing or food scarcity?

• Health and Social Services of Dupage County – 211dupage.gov / Call 211

• DupagePads – dupagepads.org / (630) 682-3846

Are there resources for addiction or substance abuse?

• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – samhsa.gov / (800) 662-HELP

• Linden Oaks Behavioral Health – lindenoaks.org / (630) 305-5027

Are there resources for youth LGBTQIA+?

• 360Youth Services – 360youthservices.org / (630) 961-2992

• YouthOutlook – youth-outlook.org / offers drop-in Thursdays 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. in Downers Grove

Do District 58 and District 99 have resources?

• ReferralGPS – District 99 offers parents, students, staff and community free access to web-based service finding local mental-health and substance use treatment. Visit District 99 websites for student support services for info.

• Safe2Help Illinois – District 58 Students can confidentially report a crisis or threat involving themselves or someone they know. Safe2Help is monitored 24/7 by trained crisis professionals. Visit District 58 website, text SAFE2 (72332), call 844-4-SAFEIL, or email HELP@Safe2HelpIL.com.