Mental Health Month, Reaching Every Community

Every child and family deserves access to life-changing mental health care.

Together, we can build a brighter future where effective care reaches every community.

Since 1949, Mental Health Month has raised awareness about the importance of mental wellness, reduced stigma, and promoted access to care.

Every day, The REACH Institute works to ensure that every child and family, especially those facing geographic, economic, and/or systemic barriers, has access to effective, scientifically proven mental health care.

This year, our theme is REACHing Every Community. We’re celebrating the essential role of primary care providers who are often the first and only mental health touchpoint for children and families in need.

What You Can Do This Month

  • Be honest. When someone asks how you’re doing, let them know how you really feel. Sharing our experiences reduces stigma and creates space for others to open up, too.
  • Ask the hard questions. There’s no evidence that asking about suicide increases its risk, so it’s always better to ask. You could save a life. The Jed Foundation offers tips on how to start the conversation.
  • Join the conversation. Share your story, your progress, and helpful resources on social media. Use the hashtag #REACHingEveryCommunity so we can find and share your posts.
  • Find support.
    • Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat, or click here for a list of more crisis resources.
    • Make an appointment with your primary care clinician, or find a REACH-trained provider here.

Resources for Providers

If you’re a primary care or mental health professional, YOU have a unique opportunity to transform the lives of the 1 in 5 children and teens experiencing a mental health disorder. The first step toward REACHing Every Community starts with you.

  • Train with REACH – Learn evidence-based mental health care skills to meet the growing demand in your practice.
  • Access free tools – Our Rating Scales and other tools for providers (visit the Mental Health Resources tab in the menu above) feature practical resources for addressing common concerns like anxiety, ADHD, depression, and aggression.
  • Consult the experts – Find your state’s Child Psychiatry Access Program (CPAP) for direct psychiatric support.

We know that compassion fatigue is real, and you can’t pour from an empty cup. Read Burnout, Mental Health, & Practical Tools for Physicians or explore the ProQOL site to learn about compassion fatigue and find self-care strategies to prevent or address burnout and support you in continuing your important work.

Get Help Now

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone.

Crisis & Support Hotlines:

SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) | TTY 1-800-487-4889
Text 741741 (text “STEVE” for POC counselor)
Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQIA+): 1-866-488-7386
GLBT National Youth Talkline: 1-800-246-7743
RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Substance Use Help: 1-844-289-0879

Contact 988

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