The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month is “Take a Moment.” It’s a great time to practice taking a pause, and spending a little time on caring for yourself, without guilt or shame. Here are some ideas on how to take a moment:

• Call or text a trusted friend who boosts your mood.
• Write down what’s on your mind or record it on your phone.
• Use positive affirmations – words or phrases that you say to yourself. For example, instead of saying, “I’ll never be good at this,” you could say, “I am capable of learning and improving.
• Eat a healthy snack – the crunchier the better!
• Move your body! Take a quick walk around the block, dance in your room, or follow along with a short exercise video.
• Get more sleep by going to bed a little earlier.
• Take some time to unwind – sit quietly with a warm drink, meditate, or stretch.
• Spend time outdoors – nature can boost our mood in an instant!

 

If you are looking for more support, here are some resources from Montefiore and your community that can help:

Montefiore Behavioral Health Virtual Urgent Care

Having a tough time? Get mental health support by video:

https://www.montefiore.org/virtual-urgent-care

 

Crisis Text Line

https://www.crisistextline.org/

Connect with a volunteer crisis counselor via TEXT message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor.

 

In Person Services

Montefiore Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Square – Child and Adult Outpatient Psychiatry Program

For ages 4 and up

2527 Glebe Avenue, Bronx NY, 10461

Phone: (718) 904-4476

Adult primary care services are also available at this location.

 

Moses Campus – Adult Outpatient Psychiatry Program

For adults aged 17.5 and up

111 East 210th Street, Klau 1, Bronx NY, 10467

Phone: (718) 920-4295

 

Moses Child Outpatient Psychiatry Program

For children aged 4-17.4

3340 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx NY, 10467

Phone: (718) 696-3011

 

On-Track New York

Adolescents and young adults ages 16-30 with early psychosis

111 East 210th Street, Klau 1, Bronx NY, 10467

Phone: (718) 920-4295

Ask to speak with the On-Track NY outreach specialist

 

Wakefield Campus – Adult Outpatient Psychiatry Program

For adults aged 17.5 and up

4401 Bronx Boulevard, Bronx NY, 10470

Phone: (718) 304-7050

 

Wakefield Child Outpatient Psychiatry Program

For children aged 4-17.4 years old

4401 Bronx Boulevard, Bronx NY, 10470

Phone: (718) 304-7100

 

The “Take the Moment” campaign encourages us to participate in open dialogues, cultivate empathy and understanding, and access resources on our journey towards mental wellness. For more information about the Take a Moment campaign, check out the NAMI website here, and for more information about dealing with stressful and overwhelming situations click here.

 

Liz Spurrell-Huss, MSW MPH is a director of health equity programs at Montefiore Health System