Even at our best and healthiest, navigating through life unsupported can be challenging. Most of us need connections in some way to some degree whether with family, friends, spiritual/religious community, etc. These connections can offer stability, regularity, safety, feedback, affection, laughter, support, a way for us to give of ourselves and contribute, too. There are times, though, when more support is needed. But how to find the support you need isn’t always easy. This is especially true for people who experience certain challenges that require a specialist in a narrower niche or have limitations financially or with insurance.

Over the past few years, I have heard from people that it has been extremely difficult to find a therapist, or other types of support. Still, it is important to try to navigate through potential resources.

What I am including here is in no way an exhaustive list of resources, but it can be a start. Some places you contact might be able to guide you to the resources you need. I know, I know…it can be frustrating to call one number after another. I’ve done it and have experienced the frustration. You might not get exactly the help you need or the full scope of what you need. Still, it’s worth a try.

Let me say that resources are different depending on where you live. Some areas have a Community Services Board (CSB). This is a good place to start if you live in Virginia and looking for mental health support:

https://dbhds.virginia.gov/community-services-boards-csbs/

Here is a resource for aging services:

https://www.vda.virginia.gov/

For food:

Here’s a link for Virginia:

Hunger in Virginia

Most local churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples have food banks.

Housing:

https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/housing

https://www.hud.gov/states/virginia/renting

LGBTQ+ community:

https://www.pridecounseling.com/get-started/?utm_source=AdWords&utm_medium=Search_PPC_c&utm_term=gender+therapy_b&utm_content=143051949317&network=g&placement=&target=&matchtype=b&utm_campaign=18781473351&ad_type=text&adposition=&kwd_id=kwd-550845554&gclid=Cj0KCQjwy9-kBhCHARIsAHpBjHjY4VzXrYSbFM1z2PKDM8KPxAArOAJUFe5OZwHp9afFcm2ebsK-3MQaAvlkEALw_wcB&not_found=1&gor=start_go&go=true

Eating Disorders:

I considered including some links, but I think that reviewing and choosing a facility for help with eating disorders is a very personal endeavor. I have an adult child with an eating disorder and I speak from experience.

Another path might be checking to see if your insurance covers the services you need and can send you a list of providers for whatever type of practitioner you are looking for.

You also can search for online support groups. Maybe even create your own support group.

Of course, you are welcome to join us at The Trillium Center either in person or on our support group calls.

Remember, you can still do what you can for yourself by practicing coping skills, cognitive behavior therapy support apps, certain types of meditation, participating in a religious community, and even volunteering to help others in need.

I want to wrap this up by saying that I am aware that it is not always so easy to get the resources and support we need. Do not give up! Do what you can for yourself and build your inner strength and resources while you look for that extra support.