McHenry County Mental Health Board

McHenry County Mental Health Board The MHB provides funding support to service agencies, managing a budget that includes sales tax funds as set forth in the Community Mental Health Act.

September: Su***de Awareness: Protective FactorsLet's build strength together, McHenry County. ❤️ Protective factors are...
09/10/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Protective Factors

Let's build strength together, McHenry County. ❤️ Protective factors are positive forces that support mental well-being and help prevent su***de.

We can all help build them:

🤝 Strengthen Connections: Feeling connected to family, friends, and our community provides a powerful sense of belonging and support. Reach out to someone today.

🛠️ Develop Coping Skills: Learning to navigate challenges reduces feelings of helplessness and builds resilience.

🔗 Know Where to Get Help: Easy access to mental healthcare is key. Two free, confidential resources are always available:

•McHelp App: A free app for McHenry County residents to text or talk with counselors 24/7. (Available on the App Store & Google Play)
•988 Lifeline: For immediate crisis support, call or text 988 anytime.
Let's foster a community of connection and hope.

Please SHARE this post—it could help someone who needs it.

Tomorrow: Take a Breath

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de Awareness: McHelp and 988You are not alone, McHenry County. ❤️When things feel overwhelming, it can b...
09/09/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: McHelp and 988

You are not alone, McHenry County. ❤️

When things feel overwhelming, it can be hard to know where to turn. But free, confidential support is available right here, right now.

📱 The McHelp App

It's a free, anonymous app created specifically for McHenry County residents.

✅ Confidentially text or talk with a licensed mental health counselor.
✅ Available 24/7, whenever you need it.
✅ Download for free from the App Store or Google Play.

📞 The 988 Lifeline

This is a nationwide resource for immediate crisis support.

✅ Call or text 988 anytime, day or night.
✅ Trained counselors are ready to help you or a loved one through a difficult moment.

Help is always within reach. Please SHARE this post—it could be the lifeline someone on your timeline needs to see today.

Tomorrow: Protective Factors

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de Awareness: Warning SignsKnowing the warning signs of su***de can empower you to help someone in need....
09/08/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Warning Signs

Knowing the warning signs of su***de can empower you to help someone in need. These signs can vary from person to person, and are sometimes subtle. If you notice any of these in someone you know, please reach out and offer your support.

Look out for these potential warning signs:

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
• Talking about being a burden to others.
• Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities.
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
• Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little).
• Giving away prized possessions.
• Saying goodbye to people as if they won't see them again.
• Increased irritability or agitation.
• Sudden improvement in mood after a period of being down (this can sometimes mean they have made a decision).

If you notice any of these signs in someone:

💖 Let them know you care and are there for them.

🗣️ Ask them directly if they are thinking about su***de. (This does not plant the idea in their head.)

👂 Listen without judgment.

🙏 Encourage them to seek professional help.

📞 You can also reach out to the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for support and guidance.

Tomorrow: McHelp and 988

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de Awareness: Su***de Rates in Men vs. WomenThe statistics around su***de can be heartbreaking, and reve...
09/07/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Su***de Rates in Men vs. Women

The statistics around su***de can be heartbreaking, and reveal a story we need to hear. There's a profound difference in how men and women are impacted.

While women are more likely to attempt su***de, men are far more likely to die from it. The reasons are complex, but the pain behind every attempt is the same—deep, overwhelming, and desperate.

A previous su***de attempt is the single biggest warning sign that a person is at risk in the future. We must treat every cry for help with the seriousness, compassion, and urgency it deserves.

If you feel that spark of worry for a friend, a family member, or a colleague, please trust it. A simple, caring question like, "You seem to be going through a lot lately, are you okay?" can open the door.

Asking directly and listening without judgment is one of the most powerful things you can do. Your conversation could be a turning point.

You are not alone. For immediate, confidential support, call or text 988 anytime.

Tomorrow: Warning Signs

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. Facts: Most Likely to Die by Su***deLet's clear up another dangerous myth. 👇❌ Th...
09/06/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. Facts: Most Likely to Die by Su***de

Let's clear up another dangerous myth. 👇

❌ The Myth: “People who talk about su***de are just seeking attention."

✅ The Truth: People who die from su***de have often told someone about not wanting to live anymore or that they don't see the future. It's always important to take it seriously when somebody talks about feeling suicidal.

It's important to be kind and sensitive and ask direct questions, including:

"Are you thinking about hurting yourself?"
"Are you thinking about su***de?"
"Do you have access to weapons or other objects to harm yourself?"

Don't be afraid to ask. You could save a life.

Tomorrow: Su***de Rates in Men vs. Women

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. Facts: Most Likely to Save a LifeLet's clear up another dangerous myth. 👇❌ The M...
09/05/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. Facts: Most Likely to Save a Life

Let's clear up another dangerous myth. 👇

❌ The Myth: “Only an Expert can help prevent su***de."

✅ The Truth: The person most likely to prevent su***de is someone the person knows well. It could be You!

You don’t need a degree to show you care. Your role isn't to be a therapist, but a compassionate bridge to support. By noticing changes, asking directly if they're okay, and listening without judgment, you can be that critical first step.

Don't be afraid to ask. You could save a life.

Tomorrow: More Myths vs. Facts: Most Likely to Die by Su***de

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. FactsLet's clear up another dangerous myth. 👇❌ The Myth: "No one can stop a su**...
09/04/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. Facts

Let's clear up another dangerous myth. 👇

❌ The Myth: "No one can stop a su***de. It is inevitable!"

✅ The Truth: If people get help they are unlikely to attempt su***de ever again!

For someone in crisis, hearing the question "Are you thinking about su***de?" can often be the first step toward a dramatic improvement in their life. Tomorrow we’ll reveal the person most likely to help save their life… or yours.

Don't be afraid to ask. You could save a life.

Tomorrow: More Myths vs. Facts: Most Likely to Save a Life

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

09/03/2025

HOT SHEETS FOR THE WEEK OF 9.3.2025!

Attached is the latest McHenry County Mental Health Boards Hot Sheet of upcoming training opportunities and Support Groups.
https://mc708.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-09-03-Hot-Sheet-FINAL.pdf

If you would like to receive the Hot Sheet in your inbox weekly, click here to sign up. https://mc708.org/hot-sheets/

VIRTUAL TRAINING ON SEPTEMBER 5th – FREE CEUs! 🎯More students are facing anxiety-related challenges that impact their le...
09/03/2025

VIRTUAL TRAINING ON SEPTEMBER 5th – FREE CEUs! 🎯

More students are facing anxiety-related challenges that impact their learning and well-being. This session equips school-based mental health professionals with practical, trauma-informed strategies to support students dealing with anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, and phobias. Attendees will learn how to recognize these issues across age groups, reduce triggers, support emotional regulation, and foster collaboration with families and educators to create safe, responsive school environments.

🗓 Date: Friday, September 5, 2025
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🎓 CEUs: Yes — and they’re FREE!

🔗 Reserve your seat now: https://mc708.org/event/supporting-students-with-anxiety-ocd-and-school-refusal-effective-assessment-and-intervention-strategies-at-school-and-home-virtual/

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. FactsLet's clear up a dangerous myth. 👇❌ The Myth: "If I ask someone if they're ...
09/03/2025

September: Su***de Awareness: Myths vs. Facts

Let's clear up a dangerous myth. 👇

❌ The Myth: "If I ask someone if they're thinking about su***de, it will put the idea in their head."

✅ The Truth: Asking directly and compassionately is one of the most helpful things you can do. It doesn't create the thought; it creates a connection. It shows you care and gives them permission to talk.

For someone in crisis, hearing the question "Are you thinking about su***de?" can bring immense relief. It's a lifeline.

Don't be afraid to ask. You could save a life.

Tomorrow: More Myths vs. Facts

***de ***deAwarenessMonth

September: Su***de AwarenessIt’s not an easy topic, but it’s an important one. In 2023, su***de was among the top 8 lead...
09/02/2025

September: Su***de Awareness

It’s not an easy topic, but it’s an important one. In 2023, su***de was among the top 8 leading causes of death for people ages 10-64, and the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34.

Su***de rates increased approximately 36% between 2000–2022. Su***de was responsible for 49,316 deaths in the US in 2023, which is about one death every 11 minutes.

The number of people who think about or attempt su***de is even higher. In 2022, an estimated 12.8 million adults seriously thought about su***de, 3.7 million planned a su***de attempt, and 1.5 million attempted su***de.

In the month of September, we’ll discuss what you can do—yes, You!—to help prevent su***de. What could be more important than saving a life?

Tomorrow: Myths vs. Facts

# HelpPreventSu***de ***deAwarenessMonth

Community Heals: Letting Go with GraceAs August fades and summer winds down, we're reminded that seasons change — and so...
09/01/2025

Community Heals: Letting Go with Grace

As August fades and summer winds down, we're reminded that seasons change — and so can we. While it’s hard to let go, as the wind shifts and leaves turn, we’re reminded of another kind of warmth.

Today, on the last day of the month, let’s honor the healing that comes through connection, shared moments, and community support. Mental health isn't a solo journey — it's woven through the warmth of togetherness, just like the golden days of summer.

Let’s carry that light forward into September.

Tomorrow: Resilience: From Hurt to Healing

Share your experience and challenges with Letting Go in the comments below, and don't forget to follow and share this post.

Address

620 Dakota Street
Crystal Lake, IL
60012

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

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