Category: mental health

Thrive Celebrates Pride Month!

 

Two women standing arm in arm waving pride flags. There is a title that says "Happy Pride Month!"

Trigger warning: This article discusses mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide. Please take care of yourself and avoid reading if these topics could be triggering.

June is here, bringing the start of summer, warm sunny days perfect for outdoor activities, and a beautiful array of rainbow flags to celebrate Pride Month! As we embrace this season of joy and individuality, it’s essential to recognize the unique challenges the LGBTQIA+ community faces daily.

Mental Health and the LGBTQIA+ Community

Did you know that approximately 4.5% of the U.S. population identifies as gay, lesbian, or bisexual? Mental health is a significant concern within this community, with over 39% of LGBTQIA+ individuals reporting having a mental illness in the past year – that’s roughly 5.8 million people! This high prevalence is linked to social stigma, discrimination, and the denial of civil and human rights, often leading to psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, and suicide. The transgender community is particularly vulnerable, especially given the often unstable and hostile political climate. In the last year, 48% of transgender adults reported having considered suicide, compared to just 4% of the overall population.

Homelessness and Housing Instability

The stigma and discrimination faced by the LGBTQIA+ community extend beyond individual mental health. In 2022, 28% of LGBTQIA+ youth reported experiencing homelessness or housing instability at some point in their lives. This alarming statistic often stems from rejection by caregivers or parents due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Additionally, fear of discrimination or harassment from community resources or peers can make seeking support difficult.

Thrive’s Promise

At Thrive, we are dedicated to ending the stigma. Our services are open to everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. We believe there should be no barriers to stable housing and mental health support, and we are here to help our community thrive.

As we celebrate Pride Month and the resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community, we encourage everyone to hold space for those who may be struggling with their mental health. If you or someone you know could benefit from Thrive’s services, please reach out to us at 828-697-1581.

Happy Pride!

Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month: Promoting Wellness and Recovery in Western NC

Green ribbon stretches across the screen with "May is Mental Health Awareness Month" as the title

May is a special month for all of us at Thrive and for communities across the nation. Since it’s establishment in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) has been dedicated to raising awareness about the crucial role mental health plays in our overall well-being. For over 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has led this important initiative, providing valuable resources and information to support individuals and communities in need.

As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the importance of mental health in our lives. Mental wellness is just as vital as physical health, and this month serves as a reminder that recovery is possible and should be celebrated.

At the Clubhouse Day Program, we are proud to be part of this movement. Our program supports adults with severe and persistent mental illness, helping them learn essential skills, set and achieve personal goals, and build meaningful relationships. By providing a safe and supportive environment, we empower our members to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.

This May, we encourage you to join us in raising awareness and advocating for mental health. Whether it’s sharing resources, participating in local events, or simply having an open conversation about mental wellness, every action counts. Together, we can create a community where mental health is prioritized and celebrated.

If you or someone you know needs support, please give us a call at 828-697-1581 to see if the Clubhouse is a good fit!

Let’s use Mental Health Awareness Month as an opportunity to connect, support, and inspire each other. Remember, mental health matters every day of the year, and together, we can make a difference.

#YouMatterHendo

It’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!

March has been officially proclaimed as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina, and we’re honored to be part of this crucial initiative!

Developmental disabilities are lifelong conditions that typically arise in childhood and can affect various aspects of an individual’s life, from communication to independent living.

Some examples of developmental disabilities include:

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Down Syndrome

It’s staggering to think that approximately 16 million Americans live with developmental disabilities. Nearly 200,000 of these individuals live in North Carolina alone. With developmental disabilities affecting so many people, raising awareness is critical. It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure they have access to the resources they need to thrive!

At our Clubhouse, we’re dedicated to empowering those with developmental disabilities to build essential life skills, foster relationships, and take charge of their well-being. Through our programs, we create a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential!

This month, we challenge you to take a moment to think about how you can make a difference in the life of someone with a developmental disability. Together, let’s work towards a more inclusive society where everyone is valued and supported!

To read Governor Cooper’s proclamation, click here.

For more information about Thrive’s Clubhouse Day Program, click here.

To learn more about developmental disabilities, visit some of the resources below: