LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) – Mental health professionals are working to separate myths from facts about mental illness and encourage people to seek help during Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
Frank Sanchez, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, and Krystal Cantu, Mental Health Coordinator, both from Border Region Behavioral Health Center, discussed the importance of addressing mental health stigma and available resources.
Sanchez said stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents people from seeking help as quickly as they would for physical health issues.
“When it comes to physical health, we right away like to seek help and go to our doctor’s appointments,” Sanchez said. “When it comes to mental health, sometimes it even takes a decade before people can get diagnosed.”
He said people should seek help when symptoms affect them for weeks at a time. Primary care physicians now routinely screen patients for anxiety and depression during regular checkups.
Overcoming embarrassment
Cantu said embarrassment often prevents people from discussing mental health concerns with doctors or friends.
Sanchez advised people to connect with those close to them and share what they are experiencing.
“You might be surprised how many people might be feeling the same way, and they just want to know that, oh, hey, I’m not the only one,” Sanchez said.
He said sharing experiences can help people find assistance through organizations or professional help.
Mental Health First Aid program
Cantu said Behavioral Health Center offers a free Mental Health First Aid curriculum to schools, districts and the community.
The program teaches people how to recognize signs and symptoms of mental health issues and when to call for help.
“It’s first aid, but just for mental health, what to do in a situation, what are the steps to do it and how to approach it,” Cantu said.
The program includes versions for youth, adults and teens. It covers how to respond when someone voices suicidal thoughts and how to guide them to professional help.
Cantu serves as coordinator for the program in Webb County. She can be reached through the Border Region Behavioral Health Center to schedule training sessions.
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