The topic of mental health has come to the forefront in the years following the pandemic.
Every year, one in five people will suffer from a mental health disorder. This is why it is important to have resources.
“My dream right now is to be able to fully support myself by doing or doing IT work,” said Sergio Salinas.
Salinas has a passion for technology and balances working while studying for new certifications, all while living with mental illness.
“I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder when I was 16,” Salinas said.
Her bipolar disorder is under control with medication and appointments with her psychiatrist, but Salinas says it’s her support system that really makes the difference.
“I think it’s entirely possible to live a healthy, productive life, but it’s absolutely imperative to have a strong support system and someone who truly has your best interests at heart,” Salinas said.
Part of this support system includes NAMIthe National Alliance on Mental Illness of Greater San Antonio.
Doug Beach, the executive director, says they provide basic family support.
“We educate, advocate and provide support. All of our programs are free to the public and we like to educate people about mental health so they don’t face a crisis,” Beach said.
NAMI provides peer-led mental health education and support groups for individuals and families.
They also have what they call a “warm line” for people in crisis or who think a family member is.
“It makes it hopefully easier for people to call and start that conversation about anything that’s going on in their life that may be impacting mental health,” Beach said.
The “hot line” is open during normal business hours; the number is (210)734-3349.
Both Beach and Salinas hope that people who struggle with mental illness or have a loved one living with it know there is hope.
“There’s hope that NAMI is here and the resources we have in the community allow people to care and want to help,” Beach said.
On Wednesday, KSAT and our community partners are hosting a public meeting on mental health.
A panel of experts will discuss challenges related to accessing mental health care, particularly for children transitioning to adulthood or aging out of foster care.
You can submit your questions here.
The town hall airs live on KSAT 12 News starting at 2 p.m. Wednesday.
Copyright 2023 by KSAT – All rights reserved.
