Our mental health is important

We can strengthen our mental health and well-being.

We can lower our stress levels and increase our ability to deal with challenges. This also improves our physical health. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. The Health Department has resources to help all people, including connections to many organizations that address different aspects of mental health.

We are working to raise awareness about the importance of mental health in society. It is OK to talk about your mental health, and it is OK to ask others how they are doing. Help get rid of the stigma around talking about mental health. 

 

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Campaign to help end addiction stigma

Addiction doesn’t just happen to certain people. It can happen to anyone. It could be your spouse, your parent, your child, your sister, your brother, your friend.

When addiction affects someone close to you, what do you do? It can be scary and confusing. You may feel angry and distrustful. How can you understand what’s happening to that person? How can you find help, and how can you take care of yourself, too? Being knowledgeable about addiction, treatment and recovery services is a great start.

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Preventing violence in relationships

Part of having a healthy relationship is ensuring it is free from violence.

Anyone can be affected by domestic violence, regardless of race, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic status. Domestic violence, or abuse, is a pattern of violent or manipulative behavior that someone uses to gain and maintain power and control over an intimate partner. This pattern can be physical, emotional, economic and/or sexual. 

If you or someone you know is in an abusive or emotionally unhealthy relationship, there is help available. It is not your fault, and you are not alone.

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Supporting the wellness of our first responders

First responders are an integral part of our community, especially during moments of crisis.

Most experts estimate at least 25% of first responders have ever had thoughts of suicide or that life was not worth living.

Whether you want to become a more resilient responder, help yourself or a loved one, or reduce the stigma around mental health in your community, we have resources for you.

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Educating Vermonters about suicide

Suicide touches the lives of many Vermonters.

In 2021, there were 142 suicide deaths among Vermont residents. This is the highest number and rate of suicide deaths recorded in Vermont. Suicide impacts the whole community.

Vermont’s intentional self-harm and death by suicide rates are significantly higher than the United States' rate. Suicide is also a major public health issue nationally. 

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Alcohol or other drug addiction recovery

Find recovery support services.

Recovery from substance use disorder is a lifelong process. Throughout Vermont, there are services to support you in your recovery. Find programs and support groups; learn about becoming a recovery coach. You can recover. 

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Additional Mental Health Resources
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Mental Health Resources for Expecting and New Parents
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Beneath Our Skin Storytelling Project
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Climate Change and Mental Health
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Family and Friends, End Addiction Stigma
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If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide:

Call 988 for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) or text VT to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. Trained counselors are available 24/7.