The Work of Non-Profits in NYC
As a self-proclaimed mental health advocate, I think it's important to highlight the valuable work of non-profits in my area. New York City can be a very stressful place, and with such a high population I know that statistically very many are struggling maintaining a healthy mind. It truly makes me happy to see that we have so many organizations working hard to provide excellent help for everyone from the teenager struggling with anxiety, to the retiree feeling depressed. While we fortunately have several great organizations, I chose to highlight the work of the three major ones we have;
Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS)
The Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) is one of New York State’s biggest non-profits working towards helping those directly or indirectly affected by mental illness, as well as getting attention towards the cause. They provide Mental Health Education and Training for schools, as well as suicide prevention and reentry programs. In order to help more people become able to not only detect but help those struggling, they offer products such as ‘mental health and wellness 101’ as well as ‘mental health first aid’. Events are being planned throughout the year, such as annual conferences and a ‘mental health matters day’. With their website being a natural choice to go to get educated, they have resources on how to understand mental health, as well as what to do if you are faced with a mental health crisis.
National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC).
The National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC) is one of New York City’s biggest non-profits that focuses on helping those affected by mental illness as well as their loved ones. They work hard towards ending stigmas, educating people, and offering support to those affected. Their national internet campaign #IWILLLISTEN encourages people to share their own stories to not only end stigma but to get attention directed towards the cause. The guiding principle of NAMI is “families helping families” so they offer free classes to families and individuals affected by mental illnesses. They provide almost 30 support groups to help those who struggle, and the ones who are hurting to see a loved one struggle.
Vibrant Emotional Health
“We work with individuals and families to help them achieve mental and emotional wellbeing. Our groundbreaking solutions deliver high quality services and support, when, where and how they need it. Our education and advocacy work shifts policy and public opinion so mental wellbeing becomes a social responsibility and is treated with the importance it deserves. We’re advancing access, dignity and respect for all and revolutionizing the system for good.”
For nearly 50 years Vibrant, formerly known as Mental Health Association of New York City (MHA-NYC), has been at the frontier for helping people getting help. They provide help where, when and how people need it the most for people of all ages. Their crisis hotline is one of the best in the area, and they provide 24/7 support by being a phone call away. They work with you to fit a program fit for you, whether you’re a student or veteran, old or young - they have something that fits you and will work for you. Vibrant works together with lawmakers to reinvent the way society provides mental care, and works together with businesses to invent new policies and strategies to combat mental illness.
If you, or anyone you know are struggling, their websites provides good help even to those not residing in New York. Help is out there, and many are happy to help.
Mia Moen
Berkeley College '21
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