REACH OUT WITH
ALEC
Use ALEC to guide your conversations with friends who may be facing challenges. These four simple steps can help you connect and offer support.
This framework empowers you to engage meaningfully and foster understanding with those around you who might need it most.
A heartfelt thank you to R U OK? for creating the ALEC model!
Education
Understanding Mental Health
What is Mental Health?
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and plays a vital role in how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
Recognizing the Need for Support
Signs Someone May Need Support
Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live.
Discussing feelings of being trapped or in unbearable pain.
Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities.
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
Providing Support
How To Be Supportive
Listen: Offer a non-judgmental and supportive ear.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest speaking with a mental health professional.
Stay Connected: Regularly check in with the person.
Educate Yourself: Learn about mental health issues to provide better support.
Be Patient: Understand that recovery takes time and may involve setbacks.
Seeking Help
How To Ask For Help
Recognize Your Feelings: Acknowledge that you need support and that it's okay to ask for help.
Reach Out: Contact a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.
Be Clear: Clearly express what you're going through and what kind of help you need.
Utilize Resources: Use hotlines and online resources to find support and information.
Follow Through: Make and keep appointments with mental health professionals.
Resources and Support
Hotlines and Crisis Support
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or Text NAMI to 741741
Community Outreach
Engaging with local communities through events, social media, and partnerships to spread awareness and provide resources.
Advocacy Efforts
Working with policymakers and stakeholders to improve mental health services and support systems.
Get Involved
Donate
Your contributions help us to continue our educational and support initiatives, making a difference in the lives of many.
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