World Mental Health Day

Mental illness currently affects more than 40 million Americans*, and yet many find the topic difficult to discuss. It is an invisible condition that touches one in five people* who are living and working in our communities. 

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Services (DERS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program has resources to help individuals living with mental illness thrive in school and the workplace, and live independently. DERS also provides services to individuals dealing with serious mental illness (SMI) who utilize the resources of many behavioral health clinics throughout the state.

The VR program is free and available to anyone who is living with a mental illness or disability. Please visit our Rehabilitation Services page if you are having a difficult time either finding or retaining employment because of a mental illness or disability.

Keeping a journal or utilizing a mental health app like Booster Buddy or Wysa can help you to track your moods and feelings. If you notice that bad feelings have lasted more than five days in a row then talk to a behavior health professional.

At DES, we challenge you to help us #breakthestigma by talking about mental illness and seeking help if you are struggling. In Arizona, help can be found on the National Alliance on Mental Illness Arizona website or the Mental Health America of Arizona website.

If you are having suicidal thoughts or are in crisis, please call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text "Connect" to 741741. If you suspect someone is contemplating suicide, learn about the warning signs.

Find free mental health resources in Arizona here.

*Source: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)