August 20, 2020

Greetings everyone!

As we all continue trying to do our best, here's a helpful thing to remember: You Are Not Your Mental Illness.

The bad feelings in your head or your diagnosis do not define who you are. You're not abnormal or condemned to a life of misery. You're an ordinary person (with added layers!) facing extraordinary challenges.

Sometimes negative stigma can creep into our own self-talk, perpetuating to ourselves what so many of us fight against. Know that you're just like all the other wonderful humans on earth, though some of them might not be able to relate to your struggles. Groups like YGT, doctors and counselors, or trusted loved ones are here for you to listen, relate and help.

You are not alone. YOU GOT THIS!
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If you or a loved one are in distress or experiencing a crisis, call:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Available 24/7)
Call 1-800-273-8255 | Chat online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat
Metropolitan Human Services District (Local New Orleans- Available 24/7)
Call (504) 826-2675
Louisiana Dept. of Health's “Keep Calm Through COVID” hotline:
(866) 310-7977
Domestic Violence Resources:
National:1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or DomesticShelters.org
Louisiana: New Orleans Family Justice Center (504-866-9554), Metro Center for Women and Children (504-837-5400) or the State Hotline (1-888-411-1333).
YGT on Instagram
We're bringing YGT to instagram! Follow along to join in on the expanded conversation and see more constructive, compassionate advice, ideas and motivation from trusted resources and providers.

~ Self-Care Opportunities ~
Give Back to Feel Good!
Volunteering has been proven to benefit mental health! Find purpose and give back to your community by helping provide food resources to those in need with Culture Aid NOLA
Check Your Health Coverage!
Contact Us If You Need Assistance
Having health coverage can bring peace of mind during this pandemic. Take time to see if you qualify for Medicaid or to re-enroll* to make sure your coverage doesn't lapse.
*Medicaid coverage must be renewed every year!
NAMI Virtual Support Groups
Wednesdays | 2:00- 3:30 PM
NAMI New Orleans hosts online support groups on Zoom, open to any adult living with mental illness. NAMI connection is a free and confidential support group led by trained facilitators that offers respect, understanding, encouragement and hope.
Backline Support Groups
Come Together: COVID-19 Crisis
Online support groups for music industry professionals that aim to address the anxieties associated with COVID-19’s effects on the music industry, provide information and resources, and support each other during this difficult time. At the end of the meeting, Dr. Newman will lead a group meditation.
#GetYaMindRight Virtual Support Line
Mon. Wed. & Fri. | 10:15 AM

MHSD's chat line will now be available to the general public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and will be led by IWES mental health professionals. The goal of this initiative is to assist people with anxiety and concerns by sharing healthy coping skills and techniques.
Jai Bhakti Yoga Online Classes
Yoga classes with inspirational message, FREE for everyone and all levels welcome.
Daily at 8am on Facebook live, (@jaibhaktiyogafoundation), Wednesdays at 6pm on IGTV (@jaibhaktiyoga), and a range of free videos on their YouTube channel.
Sistahs Making A Change Online
Weekly dance and wellness every Monday (Sip & Share) and Thursday (Movement Classes) hosted by Ashe Cultural Center. Email info@ashenola.org to join.
Jennie Morton
Online Resources
Jennie, an NOMC partner via PAMA, focuses on the physical manifestations of emotional issues. Her site offers services as well as a free educational journal focused on mental health issues and related content.
COVID-19 Situational Risk Calculator
A tool to help you think more clearly about whether or not to attend an in-person event.
Sound Mind Stress Reduction Playlist
Sound Mind, an amazing organization amplifying voices in the music industry around mental health awareness, created a playlist on Spotify to help you de-stress!
Sit back, relax and heal yourself with music.
Creative Mornings/New Orleans
A free monthly breakfast lecture series for the creative community and a space to spark connections through a celebration of our city's creative voices. Everyone is welcome. Free events hosted on the final Friday of the month & includes a 20-minute talk from a local creative. Next event: July 31st!
The New Orleans Theatre Association supports local cultural programming through grants to established and emerging arts organizations and educational institutions. NOTA has provided funding for the NOMC to support its efforts to offer mental health services to the local creative community.