It is OK to not be OK right now.
2020 was a difficult year for many. The COVID-19 pandemic, and the August derecho here in Linn County, brought about so many hardships for people from worries about physical health to the economic impact. We were forced to cope with situations we never even imagined and that we had little to no control over, and a lot of us struggled with our mental health as a result.
If you found this past year affected your mental health, you are not alone. In fact, in November 2020, the CDC reported that 44 percent of us were dealing with either depression or anxiety.
Now, more than ever, we need to combat the stigma surrounding mental health concerns. The good news is there are practical tools that can help improve your mental health. And seeking this help is a sign of strength.
Linn County has made addressing mental health one of our top priorities. During Mental Health Awareness Month, Linn County is joining our partners across the community, and many others across the country, to remind everyone that mental illnesses are real, and recovery is possible. It is possible to find balance between life’s ups and downs and continue to cope with life’s challenges.
It’s important to remember that working on your mental health and finding tools that help you thrive takes time. Change won’t happen overnight. Instead, by focusing on small changes, you can move through the stressors of the past year and develop long-term strategies to support yourself on an ongoing basis.
Follow us on social media for information all month long as we share personal stories and resources available in our community.
It’s OK to not be OK. And there are people ready to help.
For more information, visit Linn County's website and www.mhanational.org/may.
Watch a video of the Linn County Board of Supervisors proclaim May Mental Health Awareness Month in Linn County and discuss the importance of seeking mental health care for mental well being.