Self-Advocating for Your Needs
Taking a leave of absence
As circumstances and guidelines continue to change, many may find that taking a leave of absence from their education or career is the best choice for their mental health. To learn more about taking a leave of absence, please visit the Taking a Leave of Absence: A Guide for College Students and Taking a Leave…
Housing security
Your state governor’s office likely provides guidance on how to connect with housing counseling agencies and homeless intake centers and guidance on evictions and foreclosures. Find your state governor’s office here. The National Coalition for the Homeless and The Salvation Army provide a national listing of homeless shelters.
Food security
Many continue to struggle with food security resulting from the impact of COVID-19. Find your local food back here and read about other public assistance programs here.
Employment and/or funds
The U.S. Department of Labor provides guidance on COVID-19 related employment issues. The agency also provides support with navigating unemployment insurance relief. Your state governor’s office likely provides additional guidance regarding unemployment compensation. Find your state governor’s office here.
Finding mental health resources (digital and in-person)
For immediate assistance, text BRAVE to 741-741 or call 1-800-273-8255 for immediate, free, 24/7 assistance. Check out these resources for when your emotions are hard to manage. When you or a loved one is looking for a mental health professional, the best places to look are often recommendations from friends/family and your insurance provider’s “Find…
Requesting continued flexibility at work and/or school
For many, navigating the pandemic would be easier if they felt they could talk about mental health openly with their managers, employers, and/or educators and receive continued flexibility and/or accommodations to do their best work. Active Minds offers the following resources to support you with advocating for your needs: Self-Advocating for Your Needs: Navigating the…
Active Minds is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization promoting mental health awareness and education for young adults.