Overview
A top priority in our office is making sure youth have the resources and tools they need to thrive. Please utilize the list of resources below to assist with any mental health concerns. Additionally please sign up for our newsletter here and access student resources. Please also email Nikolas Vasquez at Nikolas.Vasquez@mail.house.gov to sign-up for the Youth Advisory Council to stay up to date with all things youth related in NY-16 and make sure the Congressman continues hearing your voice.
Mental Health Resources
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In New York, we offer a range of services to help identify emotional health needs and to provide treatment or support. It is a fact that children can and do recover from even the most serious emotional disturbances
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NYC Well is your connection to free, confidential mental health support. Speak to a counselor via phone, text, or chat and get access to mental health and substance use services, in more than 200 languages, 24/7/365. NYC Well is your connection to get the help you need: Suicide prevention and crisis counseling Peer support and short-term counseling via telephone, text and web Referrals and warm transfer to other services Follow-up to check that you have connected to care and it is working for you
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The Department of Community Mental Health recognizes that this can be a stressful time for many people. Our office is here to help. If you are experiencing anxiety or stress that has begun to affect your daily life and you feel you need support, call our office at (914) 995-1900 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday or text us at #914-461-7281. Calls and texts received at other times will be responded to as soon as possible. We can provide supportive counseling and refer you to longer term services if you need i
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HealthyTransitionsNY.org teaches skills and provides tools for youth with developmental disabilities ages 14-25 years, family caregivers, service coordinators, and health care providers during the transition process. It features video vignettes that demonstrate health transition skills and apps that support self determination, decision making, and collaboration. Use this site to develop skills for transitioning from pediatric to adult healthcare. Our curriculum and tools raise awareness about developmental disabilities, improve communication, and build effective partnerships during the transition process.
Mental Health Coping Mechanisms
Tips to help you manage your Anxiety and/or depression.
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Create a schedule that works for you and do your best to stick to it.
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Take a time-out to clear your head. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques.
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Get enough sleep to allow your body to rest and de-stress. Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly.
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Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary.
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Do your best instead of aiming for perfection.
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Accept that some things are out of your control. Instead, focus on things you can control.
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Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
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Talk to yourself nicely and practice affirmations. For example, “I am enough.” “I am loved.”
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Learn what triggers your anxiety. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.
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Talk to someone including friends and family, and let them know how they can help you.
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Journal: Write down your thoughts.
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Exercise more even if it’s a short walk or quick YouTube work-out.
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Forgive yourself for making a mistake.
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Take note of your achievements and your abilities, to help you build confidence
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Give and accept compliments freely
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Lastly, but most importantly, talk to a physician or therapist for professional help. In our next graphic we will share some resources for you to seek out.