May 28, 2020
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it's up to all of us to talk about it.

Each week in May, we focused on healthy habits for your mental health and well-being. During the last week of May, our focus will be on Know the Signs. Know the Signs helps members of our community recognize the five signs of emotional distress, and what you can do about it.
Healthy from the Inside Out
With plenty of exercise opportunities, outdoor recreation space and more than 100 Blue Zones Project Approved Restaurants serving up healthy options, the Beach Cities has the resources available when we want to exercise a little more or eat a little better.

But if you’re like one in five Americans who struggle with a mental health condition, do you feel like you have the same access to care and support in your community? And do you feel comfortable asking for help?

This is part of an ongoing conversation Beach Cities Health District has been having with local school districts, businesses and community partners. 

The “Know the Signs” campaign helps members of our community recognize the five signs of emotional distress, and what you can do about it: 
Personality changes.
A person may undergo sudden or gradual behavior changes.
Uncharacteristically angry, anxious, agitated or moody.
A person has more frequent problems controlling his or her temper and seems irritable or unable to calm down.
Withdrawal or isolation from other people.
Someone who used to be socially engaged may pull away from family and friends and stop taking part in activities that used to be enjoyable. In more severe cases, the person may start missing work and personal engagements.
May neglect self-care and engage in risky behavior.
A person’s level of personal care changes or they commit an unexpected act of poor judgement. 
Overcome with hopelessness and overwhelmed by circumstances.
Someone who used to be optimistic and now can’t find anything to be hopeful about. That person may be suffering from extreme or prolonged grief, feelings of worthlessness or guilt. 
Have you noticed any of these signs in a family member, friend or colleague? The next steps are to connect, reach out, inspire hope, offer help and show compassion. When we work together, we can encourage our community to be healthy from the inside out.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK, or text TALK to 741741. 
Need Help with Health Information and Referrals?
BCHD is able to offer mental health resources and referrals. If you or someone you know in the Beach Cities needs help, please call our Assistance, Information & Referral line at  310-374-3426, ext. 256 , seven days a week, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. or visit us online at  bchd.org/resources.

With the state and county announcing reopenings daily, it's easy to get mixed up. Here's what currently is allowed to reopen in LA County:
For more information on reopening protocols from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, visit bchd.org/covidreopening .
Families Connected Parent Chat
Free parent support group

Mondays
9:50  –  10:50 a.m.

Open to all parents. A support group led by a licensed professional from the Thelma McMillen Center for Alcohol and Drug Treatment at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Free course for family caregivers

Tuesdays, starting June 2
1 – 2:30 p.m.

An evidence-based, self-care program for family caregivers who are currently involved with providing care to children or adults with chronic conditions.
Happiness Chat
Support your well-being with casual discussions focused on connection and resilience. Attend one or all chats!

Tuesdays, starting June 2
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Mindfulness Drop-in
Guided meditation

 Wednesday, June 3
NEW TIME: 4 – 4:30 p.m.

Take 30 minutes to downshift and practice mindfulness techniques the first Wednesday of each month
Talk About It Parent Workshops
BCHD, in partnership with our Student Mental Health Provider Task Force, is hosting the virtual “Talk About It” Small-Group Parent Workshop Series in June. This series will support families at home as they navigate distance learning and help create balance for students and parents.

All workshops are on Thursdays from 1 2 p.m.
Blue Zones Project Social Hour
Connect and downshift with community members for our first virtual Social Hour

Tuesday, June 9
NEW TIME: 4 – 5 p.m.
Mental Health & Happiness Series
Learn how to boost your well-being through evidence-based practices to build resilience, feel more connected and be happier. Attend one or all of the workshops.

All workshops are on Saturdays from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
#LiveWellAtHome
Get unlimited access to all of CHF's live virtual exercise classes for $22 during June.

Small Group Training is also available virtually for $12 per class.
Get Social!
Add our Facebook frame to your profile picture!  Click here  to update your frame.
Share your #SaferAtHomeSelfie!  Let us know how you are spending time physical distancing and helping slow the spread of COVID-19.
Donate to the Beach Cities COVID-19 Fund
Donations will provide assistance to Beach Cities residents who are income qualified with essentials like groceries and household and cleaning supplies.
#BeachResponsibly
LA County beaches are reopen for active recreation only including surfing, swimming, walking and running. Remember to practice physical distancing by staying at least 6 feet apart from others and wear your cloth face covering when you are out of the water and around others.
COVID-19 Testing at the South Bay Galleria
COVID-19 testing is available to ALL Los Angeles County residents, whether or not you are experiencing symptoms.

Priority for the same or next day testing is still given to people with COVID-19 symptoms.

Testing is also prioritized for certain critical frontline workers who interact with the public while working. 

All tests at the South Bay Galleria are free of charge and are by appointment only. 
As of 5/27/2020
29
77
138
Beach Cities Cumulative Cases:
#SaferAtHomeBeachCities