When you or someone you know is feeling all alone, “It’s Ok To Get Help.”
“All it takes is that phone call,” said Jennifer Bowman, a program coordinator with the Mental Health Association of Central Florida.
“We receive phone calls from neighbors of people," Bowman added. "It’s doesn’t have to be a family member, it doesn’t have to be a friend. If you know somebody in your life that’s struggling, don’t hesitate to take that first step.”
The issue and stigmas of mental health are at the center of Thursday’s shooting at Florida State University.
Documents released by police show Myron May, who investigators identified as the shooter, told police in New Mexico he heard voices coming through his walls that were specifically talking about him in September. He also told police he believed someone installed surveillance cameras in his apartment and he thought someone was watching him.
In October, his ex-girlfriend called police to report that Myron May had a mental disorder that was steadily getting worse. May quit his job as an attorney, he couldn’t sleep and told his ex-girlfriend he believed he was being followed by police.
Locally, the Mental Health Association of Central Florida has much-needed resources, like a hotline and a free mental health clinic to those who qualify.
“When you’re not familiar with the field, with the resources, it can become really overwhelming and that’s what we’re here for, to lessen that stress,” Bowman said.
Meanwhile, because sometimes you never know how the slightest gesture of kindness can brighten up someone’s day, volunteers host an “Orange You Happy” event every month in downtown Orlando during citrus season. They pass out oranges and smiles to promote awareness about suicide prevention.
We asked Bowman if a person's cultural or ethnic background may play a factor in seeking help for a mental illness.
“Sometimes culturalism does come into play, sometimes it’s harder for different cultural groups to admit that they need help but we do stand behind our message of it’s ok to get help,” Bowman said.
However, one of the most important signs when it comes to experiencing mental health issues may be silence.
“Just because somebody doesn’t specifically say that they need help, they may need help on the inside," Bowman said. "One of the characteristics of depression is this feeling of hopelessness and not being able to state what you’re needs are.”
“Orange You Happy” Days traditionally take place on the fourth Friday of every month during citrus season at “The Plaza” in downtown Orlando.