May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a driving force in addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. It's an opportunity for us to come together and share community resources, listen to each others stories, and work together to reduce mental health stigma.
In the 48th ward, we want everyone to be able to access the mental health care and support that they need which is why we work with groups like Trilogy, Thresholds and DFSS outreach teams to provide direct, daily support to our neighbors. However, we also recognize that mental health resources need to be supported through policy, which is why I’ve continually advocated for initiatives like Treatment Not Trauma (CARE) and budgetary allocations for mental health services at City Hall.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. For immediate support, dial 9-8-8 or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) local helpline: (833) 626-4244. Read on for additional Mental Health Awareness Month resources.
Yours in Community,
Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
Summer Mental Health Support for CPS High Schoolers
During the school year, CPS partnered with Hazel Health to provide free, virtual therapy sessions for all CPS high school students. They’re excited to announce that summer therapy sessions are available to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors, as well as current 12th-graders who have already registered for the program. Rising freshmen will gain access to therapy through Hazel Health in August of 2025. Sign up online.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for immediate, free, and confidential mental health support. 988 also offers online chat support and support for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Learn more online.
Nami Chicago Mental Health Resource Guide
NAMI Chicago refers community members to over 700 resources through their free Helpline (833-626-4244). They’ve compiled a list of the resources that many have found helpful including substance use related support, housing aid, LGBTQIA+ support, veterans services, and domestic violence services. See the full guide online here.
Connect with Trilogy
For more than 50 years, Trilogy has provided people across Chicago and beyond with support to recover from mental illness and move toward stability. Triolgy is a valuable partner in our office’s work to connect neighbors who visit our office to the care and support they need. Learn more about their mission, services, and programs on their website.
UNRWA: Mental Health Support for Children in Gaza
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is taking time this month to highlight the mental health needs of children in Gaza. Chicago has the largest Palestinian population of any U.S. city; click here to learn more about UNWRA’s work and how to support our Palestinian neighbors.
Chicago Public Library Mental Health Awareness Month Reading List
The Chicago Public Library has compiled a reading list of more than 50 novels, memoirs, self-help, and nonfiction books related to mental health. Check it out here.
