Mental Health Resources for Teens in Alabama
- B Alviani, D Cajic, S Dedhia, E Jones, S Maree, T Yap Young
- Apr 12, 2024
- 6 min read
When it comes to mental health, it's important to understand what influences how you and others your age seek help. Obviously, labels suck, which makes looking for different resources even more daunting. Try and look at it this way: who is going to know what you’re going through better than someone who has already lived it? Or better yet, someone who knows the culture? Although mental health resources are limited in the state of Alabama it is best to be informed about what is available!
Mental Health and Cultural Beliefs
Note. From Diversity Inclusion resource fair to focus on mental health [Photograph], by Nebraska Today, 2019
Here's a deeper dive into some of the cultural beliefs surrounding mental health services for teens right here in Alabama, as well as some info on low-cost programs/resources to help find what program is right for you! Read up on what applies to you, or even take a minute to read and learn something new!
Indigenous Peoples
In Alabama, there are several indigenous communities, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, and Creek nations. These communities may have their traditional healing practices and beliefs when it comes to mental health. For example, some indigenous peoples may prefer to seek help from a traditional healer or medicine man/woman rather than a modern mental health clinic. It's important to respect these beliefs and find a mental health resource that fits your cultural background so you can get the best help you need. I mean, who would wanna go and vent to someone who just wouldn’t understand you, right? (Alabama Department of Mental Health, 2023)
African American & Black Communities
African American/Black communities in Alabama often face unique challenges when it comes to mental health. This is because of ongoing trauma of doctors, as well as mistrust of the medical system as a whole. Obviously, this prevents many people from seeking help. It is important to remember that these programs are here to help, and there is no shame in trying something once, even after a bad experience with another doctor. There are many mental health resources available that cater specifically to African American and Black communities. These resources may offer culturally sensitive therapy and support groups, as well as education about mental health conditions and treatments (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2022.).
Hispanic/Latinx Communities
Hispanic/Latinx communities in Alabama may also face unique challenges when it comes to mental health. Language barriers and cultural differences can make it difficult to access mental health services. However, your language barrier does not need to be a barrier to your mental health! There are many resources available that offer bilingual therapy and support groups. These resources may also offer education about mental health conditions and treatments in Spanish specifically for non-native speakers. (Alabama 2-1-1, n.d.).
Asian Communities
Asian communities in Alabama may have their own cultural beliefs and practices when it comes to mental health. For example, some cultures may view mental health conditions as a sign of weakness or shame. That said, it is no shock that these things are very difficult to unlearn, and that’s okay! There is no shame in needing help, and any type of recovery is not linear! These services are there for a reason, and trying them does not make you weak. In fact, there are many mental health resources available that cater specifically to Asian communities. These resources may offer culturally sensitive therapy and support groups, as well as education about mental health conditions and treatments (Carbo.).
Rural Communities
Teens living in rural communities in Alabama may face limited access to mental health services, as well as some generational stigma can also prevent some individuals from seeking help. It is hard to unlearn something everyone and their mother has been preaching to you your entire life, and understandably so. However, these limits don’t mean that you should give up hope. It is important to do as much research as you can to find what fits you. There are many resources available that offer teletherapy and online support groups. These resources may also offer education about mental health conditions and treatments (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022.).
City Communities
Teens living in city communities in Alabama may have easier access to mental health services but may still face unique challenges. For example, some city communities may have higher rates of poverty and violence, which can contribute to mental health conditions. However, there are many resources available that offer therapy and support groups specifically for teens living in city communities (News, 2021).
Free or Low-Cost Mental Health Resources for Teens
No matter what your cultural background or where you live in Alabama, there are many free or low-cost mental health resources available to you. Here are a few options, and a few numbers to call
Note. From Alabama Department of Mental Health [Photograph]
Alabama Department of Mental Health
The Alabama Department of Mental Health offers a variety of mental health services for teens, including counseling, therapy, and medication management. Many of these services are free or low-cost, depending on your income and insurance status (Alabama Department of Mental Health, 2022).
Alabama 2-1-1
Alabama 2-1-1 is a free, confidential service that connects you with local resources, including mental health services. Simply dial 2-1-1 to speak with a trained specialist who can help you find the resources you need (Alabama 2-1-1.).
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Alabama
NAMI Alabama offers a variety of resources for teens with mental health conditions, including support groups, education programs, and advocacy services. Many of these resources are free or low-cost (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2022.).
Teen Lifeline
Teen Lifeline is a free, confidential crisis hotline for teens in Alabama. If you're feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or suicidal, you can call or text Teen Lifeline to speak with a trained counselor who can help you through your crisis (Teen Lifeline).
When it comes time to find free or low-cost mental health options for teens in Alabama, here are a few suggestions:
School resources: Many schools have counseling services available for students. Reach out to your school counselor to see what support they can provide to you specifically.
Community mental health centers: Look for local community mental health centers that offer services on a sliding scale based on income. They may provide counseling, therapy, or support groups.
Online resources: There are several online platforms and apps that offer free or low-cost mental health support, such as therapy or meditation apps. Some examples include Talkspace, Betterhelp, and Headspace.
Non-Profit Organizations: Check out non-profit organizations in your area that focus on mental health. They may offer counseling services or support groups specifically for teens. 5.) Hotlines and helplines: There are helplines available 24/7 that provide free and confidential support. Examples include the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) and the Crisis Text Line (text “HELLO” to 741741)
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. You're not alone, and there are resources available to support you.
Mental Health Resources Within Easy Reach
Note. From How to Make a DIY Self Care Kit (+30 Box Ideas for 2024) [Photograph], by Jennifer Kropf, 2024 (https://healthyhappyimpactful.com/how-self-care-kit-mental-health/).
Sometimes life happens and you can’t get the help you need right away. Thankfully, there are lots of ways to work on yourself, all by yourself! These programs/resources mentioned above can give you a starting point, but sometimes none of those are an option, and that is ok! Hope is not lost, friends! Listed below are five ways you can restore your mental health.
Connect with loved ones: Socializing can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Spend time with friends and family who uplift and support you.
Engage in hobbies and staying active: Find activities you enjoy, like playing an instrument, painting, journaling, reading a book, or listening to music. Hobbies can be a great way to express yourself and relieve stress!
Practice self-care: Self care can come in many forms, and we’re not just taking face masks/skin care. When building your “self care kit”, think of things that make YOU happy, whether that be cozying up with a cup of tea and a book or just listening to music.
Seek support: Reach out to a support group or a professional. Talking about your feelings can provide comfort and help you feel supported. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with mental health, reach out to a trusted adult, counselor, or helpline. You don’t need to face challenges alone.
Prioritize sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for your mental health. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Remember it's important to reach out, don't feel embarrassed or ashamed, you’re not alone!
References List
“ADMH-Rack-Card” Alabama Department of Mental Health (https://mh.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/ADMH-Rack-Card-1.png).
Bcphysio. (2020, November 1). Take Care of Your Mental Health. Bragg Creek Physio. https://braggcreekphysio.com/take-care-of-your-mental-health/
Carbo, Brooke. “Mental Health Resources.” UAB, www.uab.edu/humanresources/home/eacc/mental-health. Accessed 7 Apr. 2024.
“Diversity Inclusion Resource Fair To Focus On Mental Health,” 2019, Nebraska Today,
“Identity and Cultural Dimensions.” NAMI, www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions. Accessed 7 Apr. 2024.
Kopf, J. (2024, February 13). How to make DIY Self Care Kit (+30) Box ideas for 2024). Healthy Happy Impactful. https://healthyhappyimpactful.com/how-self-care-kit-mental-health/
Norris, C. (2021, November 8). Stressed out? Here’s five ways to practice self-care with your mental health. VOX ATL. https://voxatl.org/stressed-out-heres-five-ways-to-practice-self-care-with-your-mental-health/
“Organizational Chart.” Alabama Department of Mental Health, 9 June 2022, mh.alabama.gov/organizational-chart/.
“Resources.” Counseling Center, 31 Aug. 2023, counseling.sa.ua.edu/resources/.
“Searchable Resource Table.” NAMI Alabama, 20 July 2022, namialabama.org/resources/searchable-resource-table/.
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