Prioritizing Mental Well-Being in Westchester, NY
October 10th is World Mental Health Day, a time for people worldwide to prioritize mental health just like we do with physical health. This article will help you locate plenty of local resources right here in Westchester, NY, and give you concrete tips that you can practice right now to improve your own mental health and wellness.
Why Mental Health Matters for our Local Community
Mental health is a crucial part of our overall well-being. It affects how we handle stress, connect with others, and navigate daily life. And yet, too many people hesitate to get help due to stigma or misconceptions. This day is all about changing that.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about one in eight people worldwide experience mental health challenges. But here’s the good news: the more we talk about it, the more we normalize seeking help and making mental health a priority.
Annual Themes and Local Initiatives
Every year, World Mental Health Day focuses on a specific theme—whether it's youth mental health, access to care, or self-care. In Westchester, there’s no shortage of events, workshops, and campaigns aimed at boosting awareness and support.
Local organizations like NAMI Westchester and the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health frequently host workshops, support groups, and mental health screenings. Whether you’re in Scarsdale, White Plains, or Yonkers, there are opportunities to get involved.
Breaking the Stigma
Let’s be real: it’s 2024, and stigma around mental health shouldn’t exist anymore. But many people still fear judgment when it comes to opening up about their struggles. The more we talk about it—online, in person, at local events—the more we can help each other seek support without shame.
Platforms like The Mental Health Association of Westchester offer community programs and peer support groups to help break the stigma. And don’t underestimate the power of social media—sharing your story or supporting local initiatives can be game-changers.
Simple Mental Health Tips from a Westchester EMDR Therapist
Awareness is key, but so is action. Here are some tips to boost your mental health right here in Westchester, NY:
Practice Self-Care: Go for a walk along the Bronx River Trail or try a yoga class at Yoga Haven in Tuckahoe. It may seem like a no-brainer, but giving yourself and your nervous system, time to decompress, is crucial for not just your mental health, but your physical health, too.
Connect with Others: Human beings need connection—period. Human beings are hard wired for connection, and it's been scientifically proven that feeling connected to others improves our overall mental health. If you’re feeling isolated, consider joining a local support group through Family Services of Westchester or check out community events at The LOFT LGBTQ+ Community Center in White Plains.
Seek Professional Help: Feeling overwhelmed? Reach out to a professional. At Peaceful Living, our therapists specialize in EMDR Therapy and other evidence-based therapies to help you get unstuck. We’re located in Scarsdale and offer telehealth across NY, NJ, CT, and FL, so help is never far away.
Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learn more about mental health by attending a workshop at St. Vincent’s Hospital Westchester, or dive into some recommended reading from the Westchester Library System.
Advocate for Change: Want to make a difference? Volunteer with NAMI Westchester, or participate in events hosted by the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health. Even small actions can help make mental health a priority in our community.
Local Mental Health Resources in Westchester, NY to Keep in Your Back Pocket
Here are some go-to mental health resources in Westchester, NY:
Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health Website: mentalhealth.westchestergov.com
NAMI Westchester Support and education for mental health conditions. Website: namiwestchester.org
Family Services of Westchester Comprehensive counseling and support services. Website: fsw.org
St. Vincent's Hospital Westchester Inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Phone: (914) 967-6500
Mental Health Association of Westchester Crisis support, therapy, and community programs. Website: mhawestchester.org
The LOFT LGBTQ+ Community Center LGBTQ+ mental health support and resources. Website: loftgaycenter.org
Peaceful Living Mental Health Counseling Our private practice works with a variety of ages, from kids to adults, to support those struggles with anxiety and trauma. We specialize in helping individuals stop the pain of the past from hurting their present and gain hope for the future. Our office is located in Scarsdale, NY for in-person sessions. We are also available for virtual telehealth sessions for all individuals living in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida. Website: https://www.peacefullivingmentalhealthcounseling.com/
Final Therapist Thoughts for World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is about more than raising awareness—it’s about taking action. Let’s use this day to break down barriers, talk openly about mental health, and make a real difference right here in our local community of Westchester, NY. Whether it’s reaching out to a therapist, joining a support group, or simply checking in with a friend, every step counts. If everyone in Westchester makes one small action, our overall community benefits significantly.
About our Clinical Director Lauren Arnau, EMDR Therapist in Scarsdale, NY
Lauren Arnau is a lifetime resident of Westchester, NY. She is a child and adolescent licensed mental health counselor in Scarsdale, NY and the Clinical Director at Peaceful Living MHC.
Lauren is trained in the use of EMDR, Mindfulness and CBT for the relief of stress and anxiety. She helps adults in these areas as well.
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