It’s OK to not be OK

Our community has experienced a horrible and traumatic event this week. Whether it affected you directly or indirectly, it’s OK to not be OK. Mental health experts recommend one of the best things anyone can do at a time like this is to connect with others and talk about how they’re feeling. Don’t isolate yourself.

Amanda Villaveces, a licensed marriage and family counselor and director of Mental Health Lou, a community wellness hub, recently shared with us some ways you can connect with others and care for yourself at this time:

Therapy: A trained therapist can help you process your experiences and develop coping skills.
Support groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can provide a sense of community and validation.
Self-care: Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is crucial in the healing process. Be gentle with yourself and practice self-compassion.
Education: Learning about trauma and its effects on the brain and body can help you better understand and manage your symptoms.

“Remember, healing from trauma is a journey, and it's OK to take it one step at a time,” Villaveces said. “You deserve to feel safe, supported, and validated.”

Here are additional mental health and wellness resources:

Dial 988 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Text “LOU” to 741741 - Crisis Text Line

502-414-4380 - The Black Counseling & Consulting Collective

502-589-4313 - Seven Counties 24/7 Adult Crisis Line

502-589-8070 - Seven Counties 24/7 Child Crisis Line

502-583-3951 - Seven Counties 24/7 Addiction Help Line

502-792-7011 - Collective Care Center at Spalding University

502-588-2008 - NAMI Louisville

1-800-273-8255 - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1-888-843-4564 - LGBT National Help Center

DIRECT RELEASE FROM METRO HEALTH & WELLNESS