Imagine if we talked about mental health as much as we talked about sports… or reality TV or what’s trending on FB or what’s happening in politics. Many of us don’t go a day without talking about one of these. What if talking about mental health was part of our normal conversation?

First, understand it’s OK to not be OK. Then look to your Concordia Health Plan benefits and/or your faith community to find solutions that can provide you the emotional support you need to manage your mental health. When you do, you protect your health and those who you love.

Here are five tips to stay mentally healthy:

1. Improve your general mental well-being by relieving stress through physical and other healthy activities. If you're a member of the Concordia Health Plan, get motivated through Vitality and get started with the Mental Well-being review.

2. Check out the mental health resources available through Concordia Plans and the LCMS community.

3. Talk to your pastor or a psychologist about your mental struggles. Which one? Learn more here. Or if you're an LCMS pastor, use the Pastoral Support Network to find emotional support for yourself. Call 888-712-1805.

4. Find a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other professional health care provider - Tips on how to find a counselor that is a good fit for you.

5. Look to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or your telehealth benefits if you're in a crisis situation and need counseling right away.

Most importantly, if you ever feel that you may hurt yourself or someone else,  call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.