Recognizing World Mental Health Day

Today, Mike and Harley sit down with Kelly Mays, a seasoned professional with a diverse skill set and a passion for making a difference. As a therapist, writer, and social activist, she has dedicated her career to advocating for mental health and equity. Kelly currently serves as the Community and Staff Training Program Manager at Hegira Health, Inc., where her responsibilities extend to overseeing the development and implementation of staff training plans for a team of over 400 professionals.

In addition to her work within the organization, Kelly is pivotal in facilitating stakeholder engagement training and collaborates with statewide agencies to address pressing health inequities. Her commitment to suicide prevention programming has led to significant resource expansion within Hegira Health Inc.

Kelly is not confined to her professional role but also has a dynamic media presence. She has made impactful appearances on television, radio, and print media and has directed compelling public service announcements (PSAs). Her outstanding contributions to mental health advocacy have earned her recognition, including being honored as one of Crain Detroit's 2023 Most Notable Leaders in Behavioral Healthcare.

Kelly Mays' career is a testament to her dedication to fostering positive change in her field and community, making her an inspirational figure in mental health and social activism.

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Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text 988 and speak with someone immediately.

Immediate Crisis Intervention: Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime. This crisis text line is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from their secure online platform.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255 or chat online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or chat online at thetrevorproject.org/get-help/. The Trevor Project provides 24/7, free and confidential support for LGBTQ youth.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit their website. NAMI is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

MentalHealth.gov: The official website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that provides information and resources on mental health and mental health disorders.

If you are an MSU student and need someone to talk to, campus crisis services are available 24/7. Call (517) 355-8270 and press “1” at the prompt to speak with a crisis counselor. If you think you or someone around you is in danger, call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room.

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